Plugging in: How can applied health research contribute to more effective health aid?

From September 2006 until February 2008 the short-term work of Dutch health workers in developing countries was subject to anthropological research for a Master’s in Medical Anthropology and Sociology. The study provided an insight into the experiences of the professionals (both in the Netherlands and Ghana) involved in this sector. The aim of investigating experiences in this sector was to contribute to making Dutch health aid more effective. In order for that to occur, the insights provided by the study needed to reach the people that are able bring about change (i.e. policy officers, NGO’s). This paper describes how this was done and what health researchers and professionals can learn and understand from this process in order to bring health research to practical use. The first step for applied research is to identify a problem (such as a conflict or a lack of information) experienced by people within the target group(s), policy-makers, development practitioners, etc. It is also important to connect with and stay closely connected with the people involved throughout the whole research period and after its completion. Applied research does not stop when the report has been completed. Finally, one of the greatest challenges is to bridge the gap between theory and practice by reaching out to the target group(s). This means presenting the research results and providing a platform for discussion. The media can play a crucial role in this process.