Research evidence can successfully inform policy and practice: insights from the development of the NSW Health Breastfeeding Policy

Abstract

Strengthening the bridge between research and policy has been identified as a priority if evidence-based policy is to become the norm. However, current understanding of the research–policy interface is limited. A recent policy in NSW was the first evidence-based directive with specific actions to promote and support breastfeeding within a state health system in Australia. This paper explores the development of this policy, highlighting the factors that facilitated the incorporation of research evidence into the policy.

The funding of a research centre to support NSW Health policy and workforce development was significant to the process. The existing organisational linkage ensured that the research evidence was identified, synthesised and effectively communicated, with the needs of the research users in mind and within a clear framework to guide action. The research evidence was not only strong, but also relevant with regard to prevailing political interests. The process was strengthened by the commitment of key researchers and policy makers to breastfeeding. Other types of evidence were considered, including the expert opinions of senior service providers regarding the capacity to act on the research evidence.