Can research influence mental health policy?
OBJECTIVE
This paper describes the processes involved in policy development and implementation with examples of how this can be influenced by the outcomes of research.


METHODS
The author draws on his experience in the development and implementation of Australia's National Mental Health Policy and on the literature describing public policy analysis.


RESULTS
A five-step process of problem identification, policy development, political decision, policy implementation and evaluation is described. This process identifies how issues are considered, adopted and implemented by governments.


CONCLUSIONS
An understanding of this process can inform mechanisms by which scientific research can impact on the issues considered and the decisions made in each step of policy analysis and development.
Whiteford
H
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The University of Queenslnd. Brisbane, Australia. hwhiteford@worldbank.org
D006291:Health Policy / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D008603:Mental Health; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D011050:Policy Making; D012106:Research