Part IV: The Solution - Building Research Capacity

A Team B.C. Approach
For the first time, B.C.'s research community (universities, teaching hospitals, research institutes, industry, health agencies and foundations) have come together as a team to work with the provincial and federal governments towards a common vision and plan for increasing B.C.'s health research capacity.

There is much at stake. B.C. must move now to build a strong health research base that will attract research leaders and provide opportunities to train them from within. At risk is not only our capacity for innovation and renewal in our health system but also our ability to seize opportunities and create new jobs in the knowledge-based industries which are driving economic growth in B.C. and around the world.

Teamwork was essential in developing and reaching consensus on this vision and plan. It is equally important as we press forward on implementation. The Coalition for Health Research in British Columbia is committed to maintaining the Team B.C. momentum on behalf of this critically important issue for British Columbia.

Our Vision
B.C.'s health research community is united in a vision of a B.C. health research enterprise that:

Has the human resource, institutional infrastructure (human and program support systems) and research space to compete effectively for existing and new research funds.

• Anticipates and is responsive to the health needs of British Columbians.
• Adds to the economic growth of the province.
• Is recognized nationally and internationally to be at the forefront of excellence in health research.