Creating windows of opportunity for policy change: Incorporating evidence into decentralized planning in Kenya

Abstract

Problem: Because researchers and policy-makers work in different spheres, policy decisions in the health arena are often not based on available scientific evidence. Approach: We describe a model that illustrates the policy process and how to work strategically to translate knowledge into policy actions. Several types of activity - agenda-setting, coalition building and policy learning -together can create a window of opportunity for policy change. Local setting: Activities were undertaken as part of the Kenyan Ministry of Health's new decentralized planning-process. The objective was to ensure that the results of a national assessment of health services were used in the preparation of district-level health plans. Relevant changes: Following the intervention, 70 district-level, evidence-based work plans were developed and approved by the Kenyan Ministry of Health. Lessons learned: Substantial investment and effort are needed to bring stakeholders together to work towards policy change. More in-depth evaluation of these efforts can aid understanding of how systematic approaches to policy change can be replicated elsewhere.