Building operational research capacity in the Pacific.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Systems Research
• Operational Research

Background:

• Limited operational research (OR) capacity identified in Pacific Island public health programs.
• Lack of critical reflection hinders understanding of program objectives and long-term public health gains.
• Significant investment in implementation has not been matched by OR capacity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the context, process, and outputs of OR courses conducted in the Pacific Islands.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of a collaborative OR training model.
• To highlight innovations, adaptations, and challenges in delivering OR training in the region.

Main Methods:

• Collaborative OR training courses developed by The Union and Médecins Sans Frontières Brussels-Luxembourg.
• Courses conducted in partnership with Fiji National University, Fiji Ministry of Health, WHO, and other regional bodies.
• Training model adapted and implemented across multiple Pacific Island countries and territories.

Main Results:

• Three OR courses were conducted between 2011 and 2013, with 12 participants each.
• Of 24 participants in completed courses, 18 submitted OR papers.
• 17 papers have been published to date, demonstrating successful knowledge translation.

Conclusions:

• The OR training model has proven effective in building capacity within the Pacific Islands.
• Published research indicates successful knowledge transfer and application of OR skills.
• Addressing challenges and adapting the training model is key for sustained OR capacity in the region.