This paper aims at explaining the extent of evaluation activity in Swiss cantonal health policy. It is a quantitative analysis of determinants that promote evaluation. For the first time, it draws together data on the frequency of health policy evaluations in the Swiss cantons, shows the results of bi- and multivariate analysis and interprets them based on policy analysis hypotheses. The investigation allows the conclusion that only a minority of cantons conducts systematic evaluations of health policy measures or regularly initiates research studies. The base for evidence-based cantonal health policy in Switzerland can therefore be considered as narrow. The most important factor explaining the differences among the cantons in their evaluation activity is their population size.  

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