Developing a model of evidence-based public health practice that makes sense for the Pacific

The new paradigm for public service organizations is summed up in the phrase "evidence-based practice," a concept grown from its origin in clinical medical practice to include a broad range of disciplines, including non-clinical approaches to disease prevention and health promotion. From a "global" perspective, this movement reflects the modernization policies of national governments that are intended to ensure effectiveness and increase accountability of publicly funded programs. It has also been fueled by rapid developments in information technology and the burgeoning growth in evidence-based research that forms the foundation of the movement. As the concept of evidence-based public health (EBPH) is exported to the Pacific, it will be imperative to keep in mind the historical and political forces that have shaped this movement, as these have important implications for attempts to advance the use of EBPH in Pacific Island communities. This commentary describes the basic format and evaluation results from an early attempt to introduce EBPH to public health workers in the Pacific at a 2-day workshop conducted at the Pacific Global Health Conference, June 13-14, 2005. This article will conclude with recommendations for developing a culturally competent model for promoting EBPH practice among public health workers and policy makers who serve Pacific Island communities.