[Evidence-based public health: perspectives and specific implementation factors].

Abstract

An evidence-based approach is considered a\xa0central requirement in the public health system. Five general principles apply in evidence-based medicine as well as in evidence-based public health (EBPH). These comprise a\xa0systematic approach, transparency in relation to uncertainty, integration and participation, management of conflicts of interest, and a\xa0structured, reflective process. This article aims to promote a\xa0common understanding of what taking an evidence-based approach entails in the field of public health.We explored the international understanding of EBPH through systematic literature searches of definitions, concepts, and models regarding an evidence-based approach in public health. In this manner, 20\xa0English sources and one German source were identified and examined using content analysis. Beyond the above-described general principles, characteristics of these perspectives are concerned with a\xa0population orientation, the underlying concept of evidence, disciplines, and stakeholder groups to be involved in the process, as well as relevant criteria and necessary competencies for implementing an evidence-based approach.Based on this, and taking into account methodological developments to address complexity, four specific implementation factors of EBPH can be derived. These include theory, interdisciplinarity, context-sensitivity, and complexity as well as general societal aspects.The practical implementation of EBPH requires human and financial resources as well as competencies - among others, for conducting systematic reviews of the effectiveness of measures, examining other relevant questions in a\xa0scientific manner, and establishing transparent processes to formulate recommendations.