Developing a Rapid-response Program for Health System Decision-makers in Canada

‘Rapid-response’ programs have been identified as a key mechanism to support the use of research evidence by health system decision-makers by filling the gap that exists between ‘self-serve’ approaches (e.g., one-stop-shops for research evidence) and ‘full-serve’ approaches (e.g., preparing evidence briefs and convening stakeholder dialogues). This project included development of an issue brief that examined whether and how to develop a rapid-response program that could fill this gap for health system decision-makers in Canada. The brief informed discussions at a half-day stakeholder dialogue that included participants from a number of national and provincial governments and agencies.