Operational research in low-income countries: what, why, and how?
Operational research is increasingly being discussed at institutional meetings, donor forums, and scientific conferences, but limited published information exists on its role from a disease-control and programme perspective. We suggest a definition of operational research, clarify its relevance to infectious-disease control programmes, and describe some of the enabling factors and challenges for its integration into programme settings. Particularly in areas where the disease burden is high and resources and time are limited, investment in operational research and promotion of a culture of inquiry are needed so that health care can become more efficient. Thus, research capacity needs to be developed, specific resources allocated, and different stakeholders (academic institutions, national programme managers, and non-governmental organisations) brought together in promoting operational research.
Operational Research Unit, Medical Department, Brussels Operational Centre, Médecins Sans Frontières, Brussels, Belgium. zachariah@internet.lu
Rony
R
Zachariah
Anthony D
AD
Harries
Nobukatsu
N
Ishikawa
Hans L
HL
Rieder
Karen
K
Bissell
Kayla
K
Laserson
Moses
M
Massaquoi
Micheal
M
Van Herp
Tony
T
Reid
D003140:Communicable Disease Control / Q000379:methods*; D003141:Communicable Diseases / Q000453:epidemiology*; D003906:Developing Countries; D006302:Health Services Research / Q000191:economics* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006801:Humans