A step towards sustainable development

Evidence based public health though not a very recent concept but has gained immense popularity since a decade or two. It primarily relies on scientific evidence and principles of scientific reasoning to make decisions on public health programs and policies. Evidence based public health has a strong foothold in developing the national health system as the information available is groundwork for implementation. A greater emphasis on evidence-based decision making in day-to-day public health practice is needed so that evidence-based framework can lead to more effective programs.

Evidence based decision making is not always practiced

A large number of health policies are still not implemented in spite of scientific evidence available in developing countries primarily because of lack of knowledge and educated manpower (Healthcare professionals, policy makers) to translate evidence into programs and policy. The evidence based studies should be introduced in the curriculum of healthcare professionals as well workshops designed to introduce individuals unaware about evidence based decision making should be regularly conducted so as to provide basic knowledge on determinants of health and thus it becomes a protocol that before any policy is introduced a thorough scientific research with evidence must support the same.

Challenges faced by policy makers

Firstly, the overwhelming data available due to the large amount of research being conducted in countries worldwide can have a major impact on decision making both positively and negatively. It is thus essential to summarize all the data available which can be a daunting task as the information first needs to be verified and can only be then implemented. Information summarized with trusted emphasis is primarily reviews which have high reproducibility with defined population criteria or research with randomization so that the results can be confidently read, interpreted and translated by including a wider perspective. Thus, helpful for policy makers
In Spite of the available information the challenge remains is the acceptance. As what is acceptable to the society at large may actually not be effective. Hence proper scientifically backed knowledge needs to be imparted to the public so that new policies and changes can be accepted.

Public health courses offered

James Lind Institute (JLI) provides an opportunity for clinicians, nurses, allied health professionals and life science graduates looking to supplement their thirst of service as well as looking for a sound purposeful job as a public health practitioner by providing online training courses. JLI conducts advanced diploma and masters courses in Public Health, Maternal and Child Health, Tropical Medicine, Public Health Leadership, Environmental Health and Occupational Health.
For more information please visit www.jliedu.com