Abstract
ObjectivesThis study describes the current state of research on knowledge transfer strategies to improve public health in low-income countries, to identify the knowledge gaps on this topic.MethodsIn this scoping review, a descriptive and systematic process was used to analyse, for each article retained, descriptions of research context and methods, types of knowledge transfer activities and results reported.Results28 articles were analysed. They dealt with the evaluation of transfer strategies that employed multiple activities, mostly targeting health professionals and women with very young children. Most often these studies used quantitative designs and measurements of instrumental use with some methodological shortcomings. Results were positive and suggested recommendations for improving professional practices, knowledge and health-related behaviours. The review highlights the great diversity of transfer strategies used, strategies and many conditions for knowledge use.ConclusionsThe review provides specific elements for understanding the transfer processes in low-income countries and highlights the need for systematic evaluation of the conditions for research results utilization.Electronic supplementary materialThe online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00038-015-0716-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
Highlights
In its 2013 annual report, the World Health Organization (WHO) showed the extent to which scientific research can support low-income countries in achieving universal healthcare coverage (WHO 2013a)
What research tells us about knowledge transfer strategies to improve public health in low
A few authors pointed out certain barriers to knowledge use, which will be listed overall, the outcomes were positive
Summary
In its 2013 annual report, the World Health Organization (WHO) showed the extent to which scientific research can support low-income countries in achieving universal healthcare coverage (WHO 2013a). Despite major advances over the past 30 years, health indicators in low-income countries remain alarming (WHO 2013b). One challenge facing those working in public health involves the use of knowledge emanating from research. A recent review of health research among member countries of the Economic Community of the West African States (ECOWAS) urged authorities to ‘‘facilitate the use of research results to drive health policy’’ A recent review of health research among member countries of the Economic Community of the West African States (ECOWAS) urged authorities to ‘‘facilitate the use of research results to drive health policy’’ (Sombieet al. 2013)
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