In public health, which describes the distinction between policy development and decision-making data?

• A. Policy development relies on synthesized evidence such as systematic reviews and cost-effectiveness analyses; decision-making uses surveillance data, program evaluations, and community input.
• B. Policy development relies on surveillance data only; decision-making uses randomized trials only.
• C. Policy development uses anecdotes; decision-making uses opinions.
• D. Policy development and decision-making use identical data sources.

Answer: (A)