Informaticist services for policymakers will differ from those studied

doi:10.1136/bmj.324.7351.1456

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Helen Thornton-Jones (H.Thornton-Jones@hull.ac.uk), senior lecturer in health services research,
Susan Hampshaw, research associate,
Andrew Taylor, health economist

Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Hull, Willerby HU10 6NS
Effectiveness Facilitation Unit, East Riding and Hull Health Authority, Willerby HU10 6DT

EDITOR—We were pleased to see Greenhalgh et al's formal evaluation of two quite different informaticist services.1 Our own experience in facilitating evidence supported policymaking suggests that some of the points raised apply to policy as well as to practice, though additional points must be considered. Our developing approach has some commonality with both projects but is aimed at policymaking bodies comprising health professionals and lay representatives rather than groups of practitioners.

We decided that a “laboratory test service” approach would not be …