Conducting a literature search and semi-systematic review: The NCCEH approach

Evidence-informed decision-making seeks to incorporate both scientific or academic knowledge, as well as the practical knowledge of public health professionals. However, the use of scientific evidence is hindered by a number of factors, particularly the lack of an easy-to-use protocol to search, appraise and synthesize academic sources in a timely manner. In this document, we provide an overview of semi-systematic literature reviews as a way to incorporate scientific evidence into EIDM, and we provide a step-by-step protocol encompassing literature search, critical appraisal, and synthesizing new knowledge. The intent of this document is to both assist public health practitioners who wish to conduct their own reviews, as well as provide insight in to the literature review process at NCCEH.