Stories of knowledge translation: lessons learned from three years of experience working in a policy research unit under the Thai Ministry of Public Health

Jomkwan Yothasamut

Health Intervention and Technology Assessment Program, Thai Ministry of Public Health

Introduction

Quality reseach can increase opportunities for publications or influence policy and practice. Evidence-based policy has become well-known and accepted by decision-makers and users. To link research and influence, knowledge translation should be introduced as essential. In this context, “knowledge” specifically refers to sound scientific research aiming to support policy and practice.

The idea of writing up this knowledge-translation topic came up last month when i became involved in  an interesting policy process, presenting research finding in a monthly ministerial meeting. As i am a researcher in an affilliate unit of a semi-autonomous research arm of the Ministry of Public Health – the Health Intervention and Technology Assessment Program (HITAP) – I have had opportunities to become involved in the policy process. This essay aims to share experiences of translating research into policy and practice during my three years working in HITAP.

Link: http://www.globalforumhealth.org/Media-Publications/Publications/Young-Researchers-for-Health-2010