Legislators seldom have the time to read through all the literature related to a specific health care policy question. To make well-informed decisions, they rely on short, tightly written briefs that quickly and cogently relay the important policy facts, questions, and arguments about an issue.
An effective policy brief will advance a persuasive argument in a concise, clearly organized fashion. A policy brief does not include a lengthy analysis or review of the literature.
Policy Brief Assignment Template
Introduction:
Begin with a brief overview and state the health care problem.
Include the history and social context of the public health condition.
Recommendations:
Clearly state your recommendations for addressing the issue up front.
Background:
Outline the history or background relevant to the global prevalence of the condition and health disparities related to the condition.
Describe the population(s) most affected by the conditions.
Describe the major agencies responsible for enforcement of public health related to this issue along with outlining their roles.
Analysis:
Constructively criticize arguments, ideologies, and the quality of current actions being taken to address the condition.
Use evidence from literature and other sources to support your perspectives and advance your recommendations.
Conclusion:
Conclude with a persuasive argument and summary statement.
Summarize the major points and provide recommendations for the implementation of specific policies to address the health care issue.
Adapted from the International Society for Technology in Education at www.iste.org/Libraries/Templates_Starter…/Policy_Brief_Template.sflb.ashx