Evaluation of the NSW Management Policy to Reduce Fall Injury Among Older People, 2003-2007: implications for policy development.

AIM To retrospectively evaluate the NSW Management Policy to Reduce Fall Injury Among Older People, 2003-2007. METHODS The process evaluation was conducted by interviewing stakeholders regarding the implementation of the Policy. A document review was also undertaken to identify activities and initiatives undertaken during the implementation process. RESULTS Key achievements in the implementation of the Policy and significant early events, decisions and contextual factors which acted as barriers to the implementation were identified. Results included the: identification of the need for the prioritisation of evidence-based interventions; application of consistent best practice guidelines for implementing falls prevention strategies in the community; and development of an evaluation and monitoring framework concurrent with the development of policy. CONCLUSION Subsequent policy initiatives must be strategically focused and coordinated if future activities are to have a significant impact on the increasing burden of fall-related injury.