Evidence-based Health Care and Policy in Africa: Past, present and future

Abstract

Africa has high disease burden and health system challenges but is making progress in recognising, accepting and adopting evidence-based health care (EBHC). In this paper, we reflect on the developments of the past two decades and consider further steps that will help with the translation of reliable research results into the decision making process.

There has been a rapid growth in various initiatives to promote EBHC in the African region. These include the conduct and reporting of primary and secondary research, research capacity development and supportive initiatives, access to information, and work with decision makers in getting research into clinical guidelines and health policies. Much however still needs to be done to improve the impact on health in the region. A multipronged approach consisting of regionally relevant well conducted research addressing priority health problems, increased uptake of research in healthcare policy and practice, dedicated capacity development initiatives to support the conduct as well as use of research, facilitated by wider collaboration and equitable partnerships will be important.

Working together in mutually supporting partnerships is key to advancing both evidence informed healthcare practices and better health.