The path to impact of operational research on tuberculosis control policies and practices in Indonesia

Abstract

BackgroundOperational research is currently one of the pillars of the global strategy to control tuberculosis. Indonesia initiated capacity building for operational research on tuberculosis over the last decade. Although publication of the research in peer-reviewed journals is an important indicator for measuring the success of this endeavor, the influence of operational research on policy and practices is considered even more important. However, little is known about the process by which operational research influences tuberculosis control policy and practices.ObjectiveWe aimed to investigate the influence of operational research on tuberculosis control policy and practice in Indonesia between 2004 and 2014.DesignUsing a qualitative study design, we conducted in-depth interviews of 50 researchers and 30 policy makers/program managers and performed document reviews. Transcripts of these interviews were evaluated while applying content analysis.ResultsOperational research contributed to tuberculosis control policy and practice improvements, including development of new policies, introduction of new practices, and reinforcement of current program policies and practices. However, most of these developments had limited sustainability. The path from the dissemination of research results and recommendations to policy and practice changes was long and complex. The skills, interests, and political power of researchers and policy makers, as well as health system response, could influence the process.ConclusionsOperational research contributed to improving tuberculosis control policy and practices. A systematic approach to improve the sustainability of the impact of operational research should be explored.

Social multiplier effects: academics’ and practitioners’ perspective on the benefits of a tuberculosis operational research capacity-building program in Indonesia

“…Moreover, our previous research revealed that communication problems existed within OR teams [9]. One strength of this study was the in-depth nature of the exploration of the benefits of the OR capacity-building program.…”

“…The study informants perceived good examples about research that improved the public health program and influence the policy. Our previous publication explained the impact of this capacity-building program on TB program and policy [9]. In addition, practitioners learned to use evidence to improve TB programs and policy.…”

“…The findings also demonstrated medium-term effects of knowledge translation such as that involving academics’ participation in policy document development. Our previous publication showed that when academics’ and practitioners’ approaches to OR are sustained, system-level effects of evidence-based decisions is observed [9]. …”

“…This study was conducted as part of the Impact of Operational Research on TB Program Policy and Practice in Indonesia program in 2014–2015. Previous publication about the project can be found elsewhere [9]. …”

“…Numbers of publications and use of research in policy and program improvements have been highlighted as indicators in the evaluation of OR capacity-building programs [8,9]. As experience plays a major role in knowledge development [10], in-depth assessment of participants’ experience of the benefits of TB-related OR capacity-building programs is a critical evaluation domain.…”