Health Research Board

Speaking about new plan, Enda Connolly, Chief Executive at the HRB said,

‘Health research has a major role to play in health system innovation and economic development. Our ambition is to put health research at the heart of the health system. This will improve people's health, change how we deliver patient care, ensure evidence is applied in policy and medical practice and create opportunities for new enterprise to support our economy.'

A shift in focus will see the HRB concentrate resources into research that offers the most potential for translation into impacts and benefits for people’s health. The actions outlined will help close the gap between research outcomes and their application in policy and practice.

The HRB strategic business plan has been developed in tandem with the governments Action Plan for Health Research. It will see the HRB play a key role in the further development of health research capacity in Ireland.

Speaking at the launch of both reports, Mary Harney, TD Minister for Health and Children said,

‘Research is a catalyst for positive change, driving innovation that leads to a better standard of living and well being. Notwithstanding economic difficulties, the Government remains committed to supporting the research and innovation agenda, because it will support future economic growth and position us to attract investment and jobs to Ireland.’

‘Health Research also delivers improved population health outcomes and better services for patients. To harness the practical health, social and economic benefits from a health research perspective, we must develop an integrated and focused health research system. The Action Plan for Health Research launched today represents the culmination of engagement across Government with the objective of positioning Ireland as a leading international location for health research and ensuring that the benefits of innovation and research are secured for patients.’

‘Together these plans provide the road map to improve people’s health and transform the delivery of care. We also aim to drive our international competitiveness and support economic growth across the pharmaceutical, medical devices and other life sciences sectors.’

The Action Plan for Health Research focuses on five key deliverables:

1. Providing national leadership for health research
2. Developing capacity in the health services
3. Building academic and enterprise links with the health research sector
4. Reforming the health research governance structure
5. Turning research outcomes into health benefits and health gains

The HRB Plan outlines four clear supporting goals that will help support the delivery of some of these goals.

1. Developing clinical research capacity within the health system
2. Increasing capacity in population health and health services research
3. Delivering information and evidence to support decision making
4. Generating evidence and promoting application of new knowledge in policy and practice