Evidence into action: a policy brief exemplar supporting attainment of nursing now

Aim To provide a framework for the production of policy briefs, and offer a practical example of how evidence can be turned into a succinct document to inform policy and bring about change targeted at delivering universal health coverage. Introduction Policymakers are too busy, or do not have the necessary expertise, to read and comprehend complex scientific papers. As a result, policy briefs that capture and present the essential points are needed if evidence-informed policy is to be developed and implemented. Method A two-page example of how evidence from meta-analytical and systematic reviews can be presented to identify options and recommendations to address a major global disease burden. Results The example uses a simple, seven-section template for developing a policy brief. The essential characteristics of each section are provided. The briefing, targeted at the global level, provides information on the major challenges associated with the treatment of individuals with diabetes. Discussion and Conclusions This paper demonstrates how to use existing research evidence to address the pursuit of UHC relevant to a wide range of geographies, settings or disadvantaged groups. Implications for Policy Gaps in universal health coverage and major disease burdens such as diabetes can be pursued through entities such as country-based Nursing Now groups. In addition, ongoing opportunities exist through the International Council of Nurses annual International Nurses Day and WHO's regular regional meetings to inform and influence policy discussions at national and subnational levels. By focusing on a small number of global topics each year, measurable changes in addressing the burden of disease can be achieved while simultaneously keeping the nursing profession's contribution centre stage.