PROVINCIAL HEALTH RESEARCH STRATEGY UNVEILED

For the first time, Saskatchewan has a comprehensive provincial strategy to help focus the province's health research resources, and expand its capacity for health research.

Saskatchewan Health has developed a Provincial Health Research Strategy. The strategy was created with the help of the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (SHRF), which conducted extensive consultations with participants from the research, education, health, government and private sectors.

There is widespread recognition that research must become more strategic and focused in areas where the province has a competitive advantage. The strategy identifies priority areas for research, including;

· specific population groups, including aboriginal people and seniors;

· rural and remote health care delivery;

· health system and policy research; and

· determinants of health, including early childhood health issues and chronic disease prevention.

Health Minister John Nilson said The Action Plan for Saskatchewan Health Care recognizes the contribution that health research can make to the province. It provides the evidence and the tools that our citizens, our health care providers, and our policy makers need to create a healthier population and a stronger health care system.

"This strategy represents a long-term commitment to a healthier population, a stronger health care system, and a more vibrant economy," Nilson said. "It is clear that health research not only sheds light on the cause and treatment of disease, but also helps us to develop the most effective ways of organizing and delivering health services."

Saskatchewan has increased its direct investment in health research to $13 million annually, and invests approximately $22 million more in annual funding to the universities that is used in support of health research.

Dr. Liz Harrison, Chair of the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation's Board, welcomes the province's strategic plan for health research.

"This new focus on health research is an important step toward producing new knowledge that will address key health issues and improve the well-being of Saskatchewan citizens. As a lead agency in the plan, SHRF looks forward to building the many partnerships that will be needed to make it work. The good news is that we aren't starting from scratch; Saskatchewan has many existing health research strengths and exciting opportunities to lead in niche areas."

SHRF will assume a lead role in implementing the strategy. One of its first priorities will be organizing a health research summit to encourage collaboration between partners in key sectors.

A copy of the strategy is available online at www.health.gov.sk.ca.

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For More Information, Contact:

Mark Rathwell Health Regina Phone: (306)787-4083