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Defining research to improve health systems
Jan H F Remme1, Taghreed Adam, Francisco Becerra-Posada
1UNICEF/UNDP/World Bank/World Health Organization Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases, Geneva, Switzerland.
Plos Medicine
|December 3, 2010
Summary
This study provides clear definitions for operational research, implementation research, and health systems research. These definitions aim to improve the strengthening of health systems globally.
Area of Science:
- Health Systems Research
- Implementation Science
- Operational Research
Background:
- Defining research types is crucial for strengthening health systems.
- Lack of clear definitions can hinder research collaboration and impact.
- Operational, implementation, and health systems research play distinct roles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present working definitions for key research areas.
- To clarify the scope and application of operational research.
- To delineate the specific contributions of implementation research and health systems research.
Main Methods:
- Conceptual analysis and synthesis of existing literature.
- Development of working definitions through expert consensus.
- Contextualization of definitions within health system strengthening frameworks.
Main Results:
- Proposed definitions for operational research, implementation research, and health systems research.
- Distinction between the three research types is clarified.
- Framework for applying these research approaches is suggested.
Conclusions:
- Clear definitions enhance the effective application of research in health systems.
- Standardized terminology facilitates better communication and collaboration.
- This work supports evidence-based decision-making for health system strengthening.
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