Article type
Year
Abstract
Introduction:
Objectives: To complete nine systematic reviews of the evidence related to current mandatory public health programs; to provide practice and research recommendations; and, to involve practitioners in the process.
Methods: Topics for the reviews were selected based on the programs and input from the 37 provincial health units. Review Groups developed relevance criteria for each topic. Ten electronic databases and eight peer-reviewed journals were searched. A Quality Assessment form was developed and used by all review groups. Two reviewers independently rated each article for relevance and quality assessment. Two reviewers independently extracted data from all the strong and moderate studies using a standardized tool. Draft reports were circulated to expert practitioners/researchers for comment.
Results: Reviews were completed in the following areas: health hazard investigation; chronic disease; sexual health; child health; and, infectious diseases. Summary statements for practitioners/managers and for policy development were developed and widely circulated. Several reviews will be submitted to Cochrane Review Groups.
Discussion: At least 50 public health professionals took part in the systematic review process. Over 100 practitioners critiqued the reports to assure their relevance to the field. It is possible to engage professionals and administrators in promoting evidence-based practice.
Objectives: To complete nine systematic reviews of the evidence related to current mandatory public health programs; to provide practice and research recommendations; and, to involve practitioners in the process.
Methods: Topics for the reviews were selected based on the programs and input from the 37 provincial health units. Review Groups developed relevance criteria for each topic. Ten electronic databases and eight peer-reviewed journals were searched. A Quality Assessment form was developed and used by all review groups. Two reviewers independently rated each article for relevance and quality assessment. Two reviewers independently extracted data from all the strong and moderate studies using a standardized tool. Draft reports were circulated to expert practitioners/researchers for comment.
Results: Reviews were completed in the following areas: health hazard investigation; chronic disease; sexual health; child health; and, infectious diseases. Summary statements for practitioners/managers and for policy development were developed and widely circulated. Several reviews will be submitted to Cochrane Review Groups.
Discussion: At least 50 public health professionals took part in the systematic review process. Over 100 practitioners critiqued the reports to assure their relevance to the field. It is possible to engage professionals and administrators in promoting evidence-based practice.