Chapter 1: What is evidence-informed decision-making?

Evidence-informed decision-making (EIDM) emphasizes that decisions should be informed by the best available evidence from research, as well as other factors such as context, public opinion, equity, feasibility of implementation, affordability, sustainability, and acceptability to stakeholders [3]^,[4]^,[5]. It is a systematic and transparent approach that applies structured and replicable methods to identify, appraise and make use of evidence across decision-making processes, including for implementation [4]. EIDM adheres to the principles of equity, equality, and accountability [6].

EIDM has its roots in the evidence-based medicine movement and HTAs dating back to the 1980s. It has since expanded beyond clinical care and health systems to include a broader notion of evidence-based policy-making [3]^,[7]^,[8]^,[9]. The more recent emphasis on evidence-informed over evidence-based decision- and policy-making takes into account that research evidence is often but one of several factors influencing policy-making processes [3]. As policy-making inherently takes place in a political context, economic interests, institutional constraints, citizen values and stakeholder needs tend to play an important and sometimes conflicting role [4]^,[10]^,[11].

The pivotal role of evidence for effective health policy and improved practice has been extensively documented and repeatedly emphasized in clinical care, public health, and at the health system level [12]^,[13]^,[14]. EIDM has the potential to improve the effectiveness, efficiency and equity of health policies and interventions [15]. It facilitates a more efficient use of scarce resources in health care [16], reduces research waste [17], and improves transparency and accountability [18].

EIDM has the potential to improve the effectiveness, efficiency and equity of health policies and interventions. It facilitates a more efficient use of scarce resources in health care, reduces research waste, and improves transparency and accountability.

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