Opportunistic evidence: evidence-based policy in the setting of the Australian Government's chlamydia screening pilot

Abstract

Chlamydia prevention and control form a significant part of the Australian Government's sexual health policy. This paper examines the evidence for policy development and in particular the role of systematic reviews in evidence-based policy. The author undertook a review of the literature on evidence-based policy. The major theories for evidence-based policy were then linked to the Australian Government's main chlamydia policy. A systematic review on chlamydia screening has been influential in policy development, but like all systematic reviews its validity must be assessed. It has been suggested that methodological appropriateness and the question being asked are perhaps more important than study design per se. Partnerships between researchers and policymakers are important but it should be noted that experts have their own particular biases. Policymaking can also be determined by political ideologies. The publication of a systematic review has provided a good summative evaluation of chlamydia screening that has been built upon through partnerships with researchers. The resulting chlamydia screening pilot will provide further evidence for future policy; however, a variety of sources are required to develop robust policy directions.