Evidence-based policy versus morality policy: the case of syringe access programs.
Evidence-based practice (EBP) combines proven interventions with clinical experience, ethics, and client preferences to inform treatment and services. Although EBP is integrated into most aspects of social work and public health, at times EBP is at odds with social policy. In this article the authors explore the paradox of evidence-based policy using syringe access programs (SAP) as a case example, and review methods of bridging the gap between the emphasis on EBP and lack of evidence informing SAP policy. Analysis includes the overuse of morality policy and examines historical and current theories why this paradox exists. Action steps are highlighted for creating effective policy and opportunities for public health change. Strategies on reframing the problem and shifting target population focus to garner support for evidence-based policy change are included. This interdisciplinary understanding of the way in which these factors converge is a critical first step in moving beyond morality-based policy toward evidence-based policy.
a School of Social Work, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill , North Carolina , USA.
Lisa
L
de Saxe Zerden
Erin
E
O'Quinn
Corey
C
Davis
D055317:Evidence-Based Practice / Q000941:ethics* / Q000458:organization & administration; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D009014:Morals; D018671:Needle-Exchange Programs / Q000941:ethics* / Q000458:organization & administration; D011057:Politics; D011634:Public Health; D011640:Public Policy; D012945:Social Values; D015819:Substance Abuse, Intravenous / Q000453:epidemiology
HIV prevention policy; Morality politics; evidence-based policy; health policy; syringe access programs