Centering Equity in Evidence-Informed Decision Making: Theoretical and Practical Considerations

Abstract

Policy Points The population health research field should develop a synthesized approach to evaluate evidence for an intervention's potential impact on equity. When empirical evidence is lacking, theory and frameworks should guide the equity assessments in four areas: 1) understanding historical context, meaning root causes of disparities and inequity; 2) understanding intervention design and intended beneficiaries; 3) understanding differential impact and intersectionality; and 4) understanding community context before implementing or scaling interventions. The synthesized approach of equity assessment better informs practitioners and policymakers in evidence-based decision making to advance equity.

Keywords: equity assessment; evidence‐informed decision making; health equity.