Knowledge translation in Iranian universities: need for serious interventions.

Background: The aim of this study was to assess the status of knowledge translation (KT) in Iranian medical science universities in order to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the most important organizations responsible for producing knowledge in the country.

Methods: The KT activities were assessed qualitatively and quantitatively in nine universities using the Self-Assessment Tool for Research Institutes.

Results: The strengths and weaknesses of universities were determined using seven main themes: priority setting; research quality and timeliness; researchers' KT capacities; interaction with research users; the facilities and prerequisites of KT; the processes and regulations supporting KT; and promoting and evaluating the use of evidence.

Strengthening evidence-based decision-making: is it possible without improving health system stewardship?

BACKGROUND Health systems worldwide have always suffered resource constraints. Therefore, making decisions informed by scientific evidence to optimize costs and prevent wastage of resources is both important and necessary. The current study was designed to identify barriers to evidence-based decision-making (EBDM) in Iran's health system.