Authors: G. Tomson, C. Paphassarang, K. Jonsson, K. Houamboun, K. Akkhavong, R. Wahlstrom
The involvement of researchers in the policy process and
policy-makers in research is little studied, particularly in developing countries. In 1993, the Lao National Drug Policy (NDP) was endorsed in a consultative process involving many stakeholders. Lao People's Democratic Republic is a poor country in
South East Asia. Five pilot provinces were selected for implementation of the policy, which had a health system research (HSR) component. This case study explores
decision-makers' knowledge and attitudes regarding the usefulness of HSR in the NDP implementation process. Ninety decision-makers from different health institutions including hospitals, medical schools and main drug suppliers were