Translating clinical research into health policy

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RECENTLY, MANY clinical researchers have learned to address the policy implications of their science and to translate the results into language that both the media experts and policy analysts would find useful. Yet, the link between clinical research and the design of health policy still remains a challenge. In the recent past, one of the ways that Applied Nursing Research (ANR) assisted in addressing the challenge was to distribute copies of the journal to key legislators and representatives of the media. This practice was very effective in helping to have nursing research acknowledge by the public.

Individual researchers can help the cause by distributing copies of their own articles and those of their colleagues and students to the key decision makers within the public arena. This avenue of communication is especially important during the highly charged political season, particularly when questions of health care delivery are addressed in the political and policy debates. Nurse scientists have much to contribute to the policy design in key areas currently receiving national attention. For example, many nurse researchers have addressed issues of health disparities among ethnic and racial minorities. Nurse scientists also have contributed to knowledge of cardiovascular risk related to obesity and to the more general study of both physical and psychological consequences of obesity in children, pregnant women, adolescents, and adults. Think about the knowledge nurse scientists have developed about the experiences of pregnancy and child rearing. Consider what we know about aging; geriatric nursing research is one of the most developed content areas in the past decade. These are but a few examples. Nurses have participated in many other study areas that are key in the design of adequate public health initiatives and in the full scope of prevention and treatment of major illnesses.

Think about the translation of research as you read each of the articles included in this issue. Granted, some of findings are preliminary and some represent the first efforts in a particular research area. Yet, even this information may be useful to those looking for evidence in areas in which there is very little research. In my recent discussions with key legislators, I was surprised to learn how hungry they are for new solutions and new ideas for addressing old and new health care challenges. They were intrigued about nursing research and all the work that is currently underway. Of course, I handed each of them a copy of ANR to highlight our research strengths.

By translating our research to the public, to media representatives, and to legislators and their staff, we have an opportunity to highlight the work and contributions of nurse scientists and clinicians in improving the health of our nation. Please let ANR know if there are other ideas you have for creating these important linkages.