Research for health is a vital component in developing health systems, in understanding the causes of poor health, predicting and mitigating the effects of other factors on health. Sustainable research systems are fundamental to improve health and well-being, promote equity and social justice and encourage economic and social prosperity among populations.

Low and middle-income countries continue to experience deficiency in national health research systems and improvements are needed. The need to create and strengthen national health research systems in low- and middle-income countries has been widely endorsed by international organizations and national governments. This stems from the realization that high-quality research and generation and application of knowledge are fundamental factors for achieving health, equity and development.

Related links

Changing mindsets: strategy on health policy and systems research

Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research