Problem: Because researchers and policy-makers work in different spheres, policy decisions in the health arena are often not based on available scientific evidence.
Approach: We describe a model that illustrates the policy process and how to work strategically to translate knowledge into policy actions. Several types of activity--agenda-setting, coalition building and policy learning--together can create a window of opportunity for policy change.
Local setting: Activities were undertaken as part of the Kenyan Ministry of Health's new decentralized planning-process. The objective was to ensure that the results of a national assessment of health services were used in the preparation of district-level health plans.
Relevant changes: Following the intervention, 70 district-level, evidence-based work plans were developed and approved by the Kenyan Ministry of Health.
Lessons learned: Substantial investment and effort are needed to bring stakeholders together to work towards policy change. More in-depth evaluation of these efforts can aid understanding of how systematic approaches to policy change can be replicated elsewhere.