This brief based on a case study attempts to explore the linkage between research and policy formation. Looking at some of the achievements of the Tanzania Essential Health Interventions Project (TEHIP), it makes the case that research can contribute to make the health system more cost-effective and help allocate resources according to local needs. The project supported collection of data and developed key tools for planning and organisational changes. Focusing on health systems, health-seeking behaviour and health outcomes, research findings were able to indicate new directions and support the decision making process
