The terrain of health policy analysis in low and middle income countries: a review of published literature 1994-2007

Abstract

This article provides the first ever review of literature analysing the health policy processes of low and middle income countries (LMICs). Based on a systematic search of published literature using two leading international databases, the article maps the terrain of work published between 1994 and 2007, in terms of policy topics, lines of inquiry and geographical base, as well as critically evaluating its strengths and weaknesses. The overall objective of the review is to provide a platform for the further development of this field of work.From an initial set of several thousand articles, only 391 were identified as relevant to the focus of inquiry. Of these, 164 were selected for detailed review because they present empirical analyses of health policy change processes within LMIC settings. Examination of these articles clearly shows that LMIC health policy analysis is still in its infancy. There are only small numbers of such analyses, whilst the diversity of policy areas, topics and analytical issues that have been addressed across a large number of country settings results in a limited depth of coverage within this body of work. In addition, the majority of articles are largely descriptive in nature, limiting understanding of policy change processes within or across countries. Nonetheless, the broad features of experience that can be identified from these articles clearly confirm the importance of integrating concern for politics, process and power into the study of health policy. By generating understanding of the factors influencing the experience and results of policy change, such analysis can inform action to strengthen future policy development and implementation. This article, finally, outlines five key actions needed to strengthen the field of health policy analysis within LMICs, including capacity development and efforts to generate systematic and coherent bodies of work underpinned by both the intent to undertake rigorous analytical work and concern to support policy change.

Worldwide application of prevention science in adolescent health

“…15,83,84 Professionals working with young people in countries of all incomes usually lack training in prevention and evidence-based practice, resulting in diminished appreciation for prevention and outcome assessement. 82,85 Poor communication and dissemination of research findings 83 about prevention research and health-policy analysis 86 hinder the use of research findings in prevention practice. Overcoming these barriers might be helped by user-friendly packaging of research findings; increased dialogue between policy makers, researchers, and professionals and practitioners; 87 and the provision of incentives for researchers to work towards these goals and incentives for practitioners to use the results in their programming.…”

Policy analysis: Palliative care in Ireland

“…The policy triangle framework has been widely applied in many different countries and to a variety of health policy concerns [15]. In this paper it is used as the organising framework for the results of documentary and content analyses.…”

Securing support for eye health policy in low- and middle-income countries: Identifying stakeholders through a multi-level analysis

“…We carry out this analysis to establish an analytic framework and to understand processes through which ideas, knowledge, interests, power, and institutions influence decision makers. 7 Since the mid-1990s, with the rise of globalization, scholars have realized that policymaking results from the interaction of stakeholders and interests, some outside national borders. 8,9 The private sector has emerged as an indispensable holder of knowledge and capital, also joining in creation of private-public partnerships.…”