Relevance of the COVID-19 rapid response system to public health policymaking in Islamic Republic of Iran

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has increased awareness of the need for high-quality and timely evidence to support policy- and decision-making in emergency situations. Aims: To describe the experiences of the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR), Islamic Republic of Iran, in adopting evidence-informed policymaking during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: During the COVID-19 pandemic, NIHR institutionalized a rapid response system that was backed up by evidence-informed policy- and decision-making. Activities included establishment of a preparedness and response management committee, gathering and providing timely pandemic information to policymakers, establishing a timeline of actions and activities, and a feedback system for policy responses and queries. Results: The COVID-19 rapid response committee addressed the questions of 40 policymakers by synthesizing and analysing evidence and making it available to relevant stakeholders. It developed and disseminated knowledge products to provide relevant information. We identified the need for more timely data and more reliable research evidence for pandemic management. Conclusion: National institutions responding to health emergencies need to take responsibility for establishing and managing a robust rapid response systems that can provide valid and timely evidence to policymakers. Over time, their capacity should be monitored, evaluated and strengthened to adapt and respond appropriately to pandemics, outbreaks and epidemics.