Dr Kedar Mehta’s professional trajectory took a significant turn after completing the SORT IT (Structured Operational Research and Training Initiative) course delivered by The Union. Focused on strengthening research skills and promoting evidence-based decision-making in public health, the course provided Dr Mehta with a systematic, hands-on, mentorship-driven approach to operational research that proved invaluable for his career.
Dr Mehta’s decision to enrol in the SORT IT course stemmed from his desire to enhance his research capabilities, particularly in the context of using data to inform decisions in real-world public health scenarios. He was attracted to SORT IT’s mentorship-based approach, which allowed him to work on a research project from protocol design to manuscript publication, while receiving guidance from experienced researchers. Through the course, he gained essential skills that sharpened his technical expertise and enabled him to see the direct impact of research on improving health programme performance and patient outcomes.
The most valuable skills Dr Mehta gained were centred around designing and conducting operational research in a systematic and practical way. From formulating research questions to analysing data and writing impactful manuscripts, Dr Mehta learned the full scope of the research process. He particularly values the emphasis on transforming research into actionable results. “The course reinforced how important it is for research to be timely, feasible, novel, and relevant to policy and practice,” he says.
The course also allowed him to develop proficiency in using tools for literature searches, data analysis and reference management. These technical skills complemented his newfound ability to approach research problems with an analytical mindset, critical for addressing gaps and improving health outcomes.
One of the most significant changes in Dr Mehta’s approach to operational research was learning how to integrate research into everyday health programmes. Before SORT IT, research felt somewhat separate from the programmes he worked with. The course, however, taught him how to embed research directly into the health programme cycle, ensuring that the findings were both practical and actionable. “Now, I approach problems with a more analytical mindset asking not just what is happening, but why, and how we can generate evidence to improve outcomes,” he explains.
The focus on evidence-based decision-making has also made him a more effective advocate within his organisation, GMERS Medical College, Vadodara, India. He now uses data not just for reporting, but to test interventions, identify gaps, and influence policy.
The SORT IT course proved to be a stepping stone in Dr Mehta’s career, providing technical skills as well as increased visibility. The peer-reviewed publication that resulted from his SORT IT project gave him academic credibility, positioning him as an expert who could bridge the gap between research and programme implementation. Since completing the course, Dr Mehta has contributed to several research initiatives, mentored junior colleagues, and participated in policy discussions at the state level.
His role within GMERS Medical College has also evolved. He was appointed as the Member Secretary for the Scientific Review Committee and has seen increased opportunities for collaboration with international partners.
Dr Mehta offers several valuable pieces of advice for those considering the SORT IT course. His top recommendation is to come prepared, stay engaged and be open to learning by doing. He also stresses the importance of time management, especially when balancing the course with regular work duties. Additionally, Dr Mehta emphasises the importance of mentorship. “The experts guiding you have a wealth of experience,” he says. “They are always there to support you—not just academically, but strategically, especially when challenges arise in data collection or analysis.”
The course’s components on data analysis and manuscript writing significantly improved Dr Mehta’s ability to communicate research findings effectively. By learning how to present data clearly and simply, he has become more confident in sharing research outcomes with decision-makers. “Within my organisation, I now feel more confident in presenting evidence, using visualisations and key data points to support recommendations,” he says.
Dr Mehta’s SORT IT project focused on reducing pre-treatment loss to follow-up among people living with HIV through the use of mobile phone reminders and electronic patient tracking tools. The project’s findings were presented to programme managers, leading to actionable recommendations that were implemented at the local district level and later scaled up across Gujarat, India. One key outcome was the introduction of a tracking system to ensure all diagnosed individuals were referred to the antiretroviral therapy centre for treatment. These changes have since been adopted at the national level within the HIV programme.
Since completing the SORT IT course, Dr Mehta has developed a deeper understanding of the connection between research and policy. He now views every research project as an opportunity to influence and improve policy and practice. “I now recognise that policy change often starts with small, evidence-based adjustments at the institutional or local level, which can be further scaled up at the national level in the long run,” he concludes.
Dr Kedar Mehta’s experience with the SORT IT course highlights the importance of practical, mentorship-based research training. His ability to apply research findings to real-world health challenges has enhanced his career and contributed to meaningful policy changes in public health. Through the SORT IT course, Dr Mehta has learned that research is not just an academic exercise but a critical tool for improving health outcomes and influencing policy.
If you want to commission a SORT IT course, please contact cor@theunion.org