Document analysis in health policy research: the READ approach

Area of Science:

• Health Policy Research
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Document Analysis

Background:

• Document analysis is a key method in health policy research.
• Existing manuals lack specific guidance for health policy document analysis.
• This study addresses this gap by presenting a systematic approach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a systematic approach for document analysis in health policy research, named the READ approach.
• To provide practical guidance and address theoretical considerations for document analysis.
• To illustrate the value of rigorous document analysis through case studies.

Main Methods:

• The study proposes the READ approach: Ready materials, Extract data, Analyse data, Distil findings.
• It incorporates guidance from other disciplines and practical research experience.
• Two case studies from Pakistan and Niger are used as examples.

Main Results:

• The READ approach offers practical advice for each step of document analysis.
• Case studies demonstrate how document analysis provides critical insight into health policy.
• This method enhances understanding of policy content, processes, and discourse.

Conclusions:

• Rigorous document analysis is crucial for understanding health policy.
• The READ approach provides a structured framework for conducting such analysis.
• This method enriches other qualitative research techniques and ensures analytical rigor.