In spite of frequent claims to the contrary, there is very little evidence
that health systems research actually influences policy-making. Based on a
case study from Thailand and a literature review, we develop a stakeholder-
oriented model of policy-making. We argue that only if stakeholders' needs
are taken into consideration during design and implementation of scientific
projects and dissemination of the results, research will have a chance to
influence the policy process. From this model, we derive a five-step approa
ch to enhance the use of research by various stakeholders. We then propose
institutional arrangements and conditions to make the use of research for p
olicy-making more sustainable.