Looking back: evolving public health perspectives on research impact

2020 ◽  
pp. 161-182
Author(s):  
Katherine E. Smith ◽  
Justyna Bandola-Gill ◽  
Nasar Meer ◽  
Ellen Stewart ◽  
Richard Watermeyer
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Research Impact ◽  
Historical Approach ◽  
Run Up ◽  
Looking Back ◽  
Over Time

This chapter takes a more historical approach, using public health as a case study to explore how views of efforts to stimulate and reward research impact have changed over time. To achieve this, the chapter compares the views of academics interviewed in 2003-2007, the run up to the RAE in 2008, just before the emergence of ‘research impact’, with the views of academics working in the same field in 2011-2015, who experienced REF2014 and the first attempt to assess impact case studies.

Introduction to the case studies

2020 ◽  
pp. 75-82
Author(s):  
Frank Schimmelfennig ◽  
Thomas Winzen ◽  
Tobias Lenz ◽  
Jofre Rocabert ◽  
Loriana Crasnic ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Case Studies ◽  
International Organizations ◽  
Case Selection ◽  
World Regions ◽  
Historical Periods ◽  
Over Time

This chapter introduces the case studies. It describes the rationale for studying cases, our case selection, and the structure of the case study chapters. The case studies offer an opportunity to examine the conditions under which international organizations establish international parliamentary institutions (IPIs) in more detail, take into account alternative configurations of conditions for IPI establishment, and trace the processes of strategic democratic legitimation. In addition, the cases include some of the rare cases of empowerment, in which IPIs increase their authority over time. The case selection aims at a diverse set of cases representing positive and negative cases of IPI establishment, a variety of world regions and historical periods, and stark variation across the conditions of parliamentarization.

scholarly journals Case study research for better evaluations of complex interventions: rationale and challenges

BMC Medicine ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 18 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Sara Paparini ◽  
Judith Green ◽  
Chrysanthi Papoutsi ◽  
Jamie Murdoch ◽  
Mark Petticrew ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Health Services ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Health Research ◽  
Case Study Research ◽  
Main Body ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Study Research ◽  
Empirical Case Studies

Abstract Background The need for better methods for evaluation in health research has been widely recognised. The ‘complexity turn’ has drawn attention to the limitations of relying on causal inference from randomised controlled trials alone for understanding whether, and under which conditions, interventions in complex systems improve health services or the public health, and what mechanisms might link interventions and outcomes. We argue that case study research—currently denigrated as poor evidence—is an under-utilised resource for not only providing evidence about context and transferability, but also for helping strengthen causal inferences when pathways between intervention and effects are likely to be non-linear. Main body Case study research, as an overall approach, is based on in-depth explorations of complex phenomena in their natural, or real-life, settings. Empirical case studies typically enable dynamic understanding of complex challenges and provide evidence about causal mechanisms and the necessary and sufficient conditions (contexts) for intervention implementation and effects. This is essential evidence not just for researchers concerned about internal and external validity, but also research users in policy and practice who need to know what the likely effects of complex programmes or interventions will be in their settings. The health sciences have much to learn from scholarship on case study methodology in the social sciences. However, there are multiple challenges in fully exploiting the potential learning from case study research. First are misconceptions that case study research can only provide exploratory or descriptive evidence. Second, there is little consensus about what a case study is, and considerable diversity in how empirical case studies are conducted and reported. Finally, as case study researchers typically (and appropriately) focus on thick description (that captures contextual detail), it can be challenging to identify the key messages related to intervention evaluation from case study reports. Conclusion Whilst the diversity of published case studies in health services and public health research is rich and productive, we recommend further clarity and specific methodological guidance for those reporting case study research for evaluation audiences.

scholarly journals Combining abbreviated literature searches with single-reviewer screening: three case studies of rapid reviews

2020 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lisa Affengruber ◽  
Gernot Wagner ◽  
Siw Waffenschmidt ◽  
Stefan K. Lhachimi ◽  
Barbara Nussbaumer-Streit ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Cochrane Review ◽  
Reference Standards ◽  
Rapid Review ◽  
Convenience Sample ◽  
Rapid Reviews ◽  
Cochrane Reviews ◽  
Literature Searches

Abstract Background Decision-makers increasingly request rapid answers to clinical or public health questions. To save time, personnel, and financial resources, rapid reviews streamline the methodological steps of the systematic review process. We aimed to explore the validity of a rapid review approach that combines a substantially abbreviated literature search with single-reviewer screening of abstracts and full texts using three case studies. Methods We used a convenience sample of three ongoing Cochrane reviews as reference standards. Two reviews addressed oncological topics and one addressed a public health topic. For each of the three topics, three reviewers screened the literature independently. Our primary outcome was the change in conclusions between the rapid reviews and the respective Cochrane reviews. In case the rapid approach missed studies, we recalculated the meta-analyses for the main outcomes and asked Cochrane review authors if the new body of evidence would change their original conclusion compared with the reference standards. Additionally, we assessed the sensitivity of the rapid review approach compared with the results of the original Cochrane reviews. Results For the two oncological topics (case studies 1 and 2), the three rapid reviews each yielded the same conclusions as the Cochrane reviews. However, the authors would have had less certainty about their conclusion in case study 2. For case study 3, the public health topic, only one of the three rapid reviews led to the same conclusion as the Cochrane review. The other two rapid reviews provided insufficient information for the authors to draw conclusions. Using the rapid review approach, the sensitivity was 100% (3 of 3) for case study 1. For case study 2, the three rapid reviews identified 40% (4 of 10), 50% (5 of 10), and 60% (6 of 10) of the included studies, respectively; for case study 3, the respective numbers were 38% (8 of 21), 43% (9 of 21), and 48% (10 of 21). Conclusions Within the limitations of these case studies, a rapid review approach that combines abbreviated literature searches with single-reviewer screening may be feasible for focused clinical questions. For complex public health topics, sensitivity seems to be insufficient.

IT 4 Regime Change: Networking around the State in Egypt

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Deborah L. Wheeler
Keyword(s):  
New Media ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Internet Use ◽  
Regime Change ◽  
Media Use ◽  
The Core ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
The Status ◽  
Over Time

This chapter takes as a starting point Gene Sharp’s observation that, “the exercise of power depends on the consent of the ruled who, by withdrawing that consent can control and even destroy the power of their opponent” (Sharp, 1973, p. 4). While this observation applies across the three case studies at the core of this book, in the Egyptian state in particular, Internet use allowed citizens to experiment with withdrawing their consent, in ways that were destructive to the status quo over time, but subtle enough to go relatively undetected until the 25 January revolution. Having a voice, both online and off, resulted in, “the exchange of ideas, information and models” which “created an active citizenry” (Bayat, 2010, p. 247). Throughout the Egyptian case study, explanations for an empowered citizenry linked in part with new media use are considered.

Public-private partnerships and collaboration in digital health: a scoping review and case study analysis of applications during the COVID-19 pandemic (Preprint)

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nishali Kirit Patel ◽  
Elinor Wahal ◽  
Adriana Mancilla Galindo ◽  
Alejandra Rodarte ◽  
Tim Jesudason ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Literature Search ◽  
Digital Health ◽  
Grey Literature ◽  
Public Private Partnerships ◽  
Search Results ◽  
Stage Process

BACKGROUND The emergence of digital technologies over the past decade has presented a novel opportunity to address healthcare challenges associated with COVID-19 and accelerate progress towards achieving the health-related goals under the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) have played a vital role in scaling up digital health solutions and disseminating curated scientific information in the face of the infodemic. However, several challenges remain around the effectiveness of PPP-related digital solutions and antagonistic viewpoints of engaging the private sector. We sought to evaluate the role of public-private partnerships in the digital public health space during COVID-19 and identify key lessons learned and challenges in the uptake of digital health solutions globally. OBJECTIVE Electronic and grey literature search results from PubMed, Google, and Google Scholar were screened by one reviewer through a two-stage process. We included all relevant systematic reviews, interventional, observational, and descriptive studies published in English published from January 2020 to June 2021. Two case study analyses on digital health chatbots, informed by expert opinion, were also performed to assess for the role of public-private partnerships in advancing digital public health solutions. METHODS Electronic and grey literature search results from PubMed, Google, and Google Scholar were screened by one reviewer through a two-stage process. We included all relevant systematic reviews, interventional, observational, and descriptive studies published in English published from January 2020 to June 2021. Two case study analyses on digital health chatbots, informed by expert opinion, were also performed to assess for the role of public-private partnerships in advancing digital public health solutions. RESULTS Forty-five articles met the inclusion criteria for qualitative analysis, the majority of which were secondary research. Results of the publications can be broadly categorized into three groups: (1) models and definitions of public-private partnerships used in the healthcare space; (2) purposes of and motivations of public-private partnerships in global public health; and (3) and facilitators, barriers, and challenges to date. CONCLUSIONS The literature review as well as the case studies analysis reveal that PPPs can represent a valid option for tackling global healthcare issues with a digital health approach. Further research is needed to complement the initial findings of the present paper, as well as to assess a wider pool of case studies and the different features that they might present.

scholarly journals How Diverging Interests in Public Health and Urban Planning Can Lead to Less Healthy Cities

2019 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 71-89
Author(s):  
Melissa Hensley ◽  
Derlie Mateo-Babiano ◽  
John Minnery ◽  
Dorina Pojani
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Urban Planning ◽  
Health Outcomes ◽  
Urban Form ◽  
Land Uses ◽  
Healthy Cities ◽  
Health Concerns ◽  
Government Institutions ◽  
Over Time

Modern urban planning is intricately linked to public health concerns, with early twentieth-century planners segregating land uses and regulating development to help improve public health. Over time, this segregation created sprawling cities, now associated with poor health outcomes. This research explores how “ideas, interests, and institutions” (the 3Is) related to public health and planning have interacted in the planning of our cities. Using Brisbane, Australia, as a case study, we explore influences in public health and urban planning to better understand how their interaction influenced local government institutions and the development of Brisbane’s urban form.

Strategic manoeuvers in outsourcing arrangements

2016 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 139-158 ◽  
Author(s):  
Albert Plugge ◽  
Mark Borman ◽  
Marijn Janssen
Keyword(s):  
Case Studies ◽  
Context Dependency ◽  
Stable Set ◽  
Adaptation Period ◽  
Short Term ◽  
Retrospective Case ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Adaptive Capabilities ◽  
Over Time

Purpose Adaptation is often seen as a key competitive advantage for outsourcing vendors. Outsourcing research has often assumed that vendor capabilities are static. However, as a result of uncertainties and/or changes in the client environment, vendors need to be able to adapt their outsourcing capabilities. The aim of our research is to compare two contrasting outsourcing approaches and illustrate how an adaptive approach may deliver better results for clients in the long term. Design/methodology/approach The paper uses a combination of literature and case study research. A retrospective case study approach was adopted, using interviews, observations and analysis of reports. Two case studies utilizing contrasting clients approaches were investigated and compared. In one of the case studies, the client reorganized activities first and then outsourced them, while in the other, the client did the reverse – outsourced first and then reorganized. Findings The findings indicate that reorganizing first and outsourcing afterwards contributes to a more controlled implementation, which results in a more defined and stable set of vendor outsourcing capabilities that contributed to short-term success. In contrast, outsourcing first and reorganizing later demonstrates a less controlled redesign of the client’s organizational structure, which requires a malleable set of outsourcing capabilities to accommodate future change. The latter strategic manoeuver results in an extended adaptation period, as some capabilities need to be developed over time. However, it may improve success over time as subsequent changes in the client environment can be catered for in a better way. Research limitations/implications Only two explorative case studies were performed, limiting confidence in the degree of generalization of the results. We plea for more research on the effect of context dependency as various contingencies may impact the adaptation of outsourcing capabilities; for example, the volatility of the client’s market or the stability of the technology concerned. Practical implications When a client applies a proactive manoeuver, reorganizing first and then applying outsourcing, the number of adaptive capabilities required of the outsourcing vendor is reduced, limiting the risk for the client in the short term. In the longer term, however, subsequent change requirements may be less well-accommodated. Originality/value Strategic manoeuvers within an outsourcing context have received limited attention in research. As far as we know, this is the first empirical research that investigates the benefits of vendors having adaptive capability.

Comparative Case Study Research

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lesley Bartlett ◽  
Frances Vavrus
Keyword(s):  
Qualitative Research ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Case Study Research ◽  
Comparative Case Study ◽  
Study Research ◽  
Regional State ◽  
Over Time

Case studies in the field of education often eschew comparison. However, when scholars forego comparison, they are missing an important opportunity to bolster case studies’ theoretical generalizability. Scholars must examine how disparate epistemologies lead to distinct kinds of qualitative research and different notions of comparison. Expanded notions of comparison include not only the usual logic of contrast or juxtaposition but also a logic of tracing, in order to embrace approaches to comparison that are coherent with critical, constructivist, and interpretive qualitative traditions. Finally, comparative case study researchers consider three axes of comparison: the vertical, which pays attention across levels or scales, from the local through the regional, state, federal, and global; the horizontal, which examines how similar phenomena or policies unfold in distinct locations that are socially produced; and the transversal, which compares over time.

scholarly journals Using unfolding case studies to better prepare the public health nutrition workforce to address the social determinants of health

2018 ◽  
Vol 22 (1) ◽  
pp. 180-183 ◽  
Author(s):  
Claire Palermo ◽  
Sue Kleve ◽  
Julia McCartan ◽  
Julie Brimblecombe ◽  
Megan Ferguson
Keyword(s):  
Public Health ◽  
Case Studies ◽  
Social Determinants ◽  
Public Health Nutrition ◽  
Case Study Approach ◽  
The Public ◽  
Study Approach ◽  
The Social ◽  
Unfolding Case Studies

AbstractObjectiveThe public health nutrition workforce has been reported to be underprepared for practice. The present study aimed to test the ability of an unfolding case study approach to support the public health nutrition workforce for the workplace, with a focus on improved access to nutritious food.DesignTwo unfolding case studies were trialled with undergraduate students in two-hour workshops to enhance their capability to address access to nutritious food as a social determinant of health. The approach provided information about the case using a staged approach that supported learners to review and reply to information and then continue this process as the case became increasingly complex.SettingMelbourne, Australia.ParticipantsThirty-eight undergraduate nutrition and dietetics students.ResultsThe analysis revealed that the unfolding case study approach provided a place to challenge and deepen knowledge and think about the application of theory. As the cases developed and became more challenging, students were supported to consider appropriate approaches and recognised the constant evolution and dynamic nature of practice.ConclusionsThis learning activity challenged students and supported deep learning about possible solutions. It may also be useful at a graduate level and for continuous education of nutritionists and/or dietitians to empower the workforce to address the social determinants of health, rather than just acknowledging them as a set of barriers that prevent people and communities from achieving optimal health. Further work is required to investigate how unfolding case studies in curricula shape preparedness for practice of public health nutrition.

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