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Health Research Policy and Systems
Published in: Health Research Policy and Systems 1/2017

Open Access 01-12-2017 | Opinion

Knowledge mobilisation for policy development: implementing systems approaches through participatory dynamic simulation modelling

Authors: Louise Freebairn, Lucie Rychetnik, Jo-An Atkinson, Paul Kelly, Geoff McDonnell, Nick Roberts, Christine Whittall, Sally Redman

Published in: Health Research Policy and Systems | Issue 1/2017

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Abstract

Background

Evidence-based decision-making is an important foundation for health policy and service planning decisions, yet there remain challenges in ensuring that the many forms of available evidence are considered when decisions are being made. Mobilising knowledge for policy and practice is an emergent process, and one that is highly relational, often messy and profoundly context dependent. Systems approaches, such as dynamic simulation modelling can be used to examine both complex health issues and the context in which they are embedded, and to develop decision support tools.

Objective

This paper reports on the novel use of participatory simulation modelling as a knowledge mobilisation tool in Australian real-world policy settings. We describe how this approach combined systems science methodology and some of the core elements of knowledge mobilisation best practice. We describe the strategies adopted in three case studies to address both technical and socio-political issues, and compile the experiential lessons derived. Finally, we consider the implications of these knowledge mobilisation case studies and provide evidence for the feasibility of this approach in policy development settings.

Conclusion

Participatory dynamic simulation modelling builds on contemporary knowledge mobilisation approaches for health stakeholders to collaborate and explore policy and health service scenarios for priority public health topics. The participatory methods place the decision-maker at the centre of the process and embed deliberative methods and co-production of knowledge. The simulation models function as health policy and programme dynamic decision support tools that integrate diverse forms of evidence, including research evidence, expert knowledge and localised contextual information. Further research is underway to determine the impact of these methods on health service decision-making.
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Metadata
Title
Knowledge mobilisation for policy development: implementing systems approaches through participatory dynamic simulation modelling
Authors
Louise Freebairn
Lucie Rychetnik
Jo-An Atkinson
Paul Kelly
Geoff McDonnell
Nick Roberts
Christine Whittall
Sally Redman
Publication date
01-12-2017
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Health Research Policy and Systems / Issue 1/2017
Electronic ISSN: 1478-4505
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12961-017-0245-1

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