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The 3D Combined Approach Matrix - An Improved Tool for Setting Priorities in Research for Health

Theme:

Tools for enhancing health equity

Authors:

Ghaffar, Abdul
Collins, Téa
Matlin, Stephen A.
Olifson, Sylvie

Keywords:

Combined Approach Matrix (CAM), priority setting, research

Year:

2009

Pages:

49

ISBN:

978-2-940401-19-2

Abstract

In recognition of the importance of priority setting in health research, the Global Forum for Health Research published in 2004 a tool called the Combined Approach Matrix (CAM). The rationale of the CAM is to bring together a large range of factors, along different dimensions, into a single analytical tool. Through extensive experience with different applications of the CAM, it became clear that a further dimension was required to capture the multiple forms of discrimination, marginalization and vulnerability which operate beyond the original two dimensions to make sure that the priority setting in research benefits those with greatest need and contributes to improved health and equity. The original two-dimensional tool has now been further refined into a Three-Dimensional Combined Approach Matrix (3D CAM).

The 3D CAM has been designed to identify, explore and analyze a large number of factors, and their complex interactions, across three different dimensions, and then to synthesize that information as concisely – and precisely – as possible, in a matrix, in order to maximize the chance that the priorities that are eventually selected, are indeed those which will contribute most effectively to equity in health research.

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