How to make effective health recommendations-implications for coronial practice: a narrative review

Area of Science:

• Public Health Policy
• Health Services Research
• Implementation Science

Background:

• Numerous organizations in Aotearoa New Zealand issue health recommendations.
• A significant challenge exists in ensuring these recommendations gain traction and are implemented effectively.
• There is a recognized lack of guidance on crafting impactful recommendations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the characteristics of health recommendations associated with successful implementation.
• To identify factors that enhance the effectiveness and traction of recommendations.
• To provide evidence-based guidance for making implementable recommendations.

Main Methods:

• A narrative literature review was conducted.
• The review focused on identifying characteristics of implemented recommendations.
• Evidence was sought from independent reviews (coronial inquiries, mortality reviews, royal commissions).

Main Results:

• Similarities in implemented recommendations were observed across various settings.
• Key factors associated with successful implementation were identified.
• These factors encompass recommendation content, delivery, timing, and stakeholder relationships.

Conclusions:

• The quality and effectiveness of recommendations have significant health and public policy implications.
• Failure to implement high-return health interventions incurs substantial societal opportunity costs.
• The findings are relevant to diverse settings aiming to improve health outcomes through recommendations.