Research

Why research?

Research is important to Alberta Health Services’ future successes. 

As identified in AHS’ Strategic Direction 2009-2012, a strong focus on research will help us to make informed decisions in both policy and practice.  It will be a critical part of improving the health care system and using health care funding wisely.  The ultimate aim is to enable Albertans to reach their full health potential.

The Strategic Directions for Research outlines how excellent research will be encouraged within Alberta.  Provincial health research agendas, addressing issues of great impact on AHS and the well-being of Albertans, will be supported.  The aim is to streamline the tasks which people need to complete in order to do research, such as having a standard method to review research proposals and to assess any risks.  There are also plans to develop ways to store information which can then be used by those who have been approved to do research.

Such a positive research environment has other benefits: 

• First of all, it makes it attractive for excellent health care professionals to work in Alberta. 
• It also helps them, wherever they are in the organization, to become better at using the right information to make positive changes in the workplace. 
• Lastly, it makes economic sense; health research has been shown to create healthier, more productive citizens and health industries with high-quality jobs.

As the pages about research in AHS are further developed, you will find information on some of these projects as well as resources to help those who do health research.  There are many people involved in health research; they may belong to different professions, work for separate departments and be involved in various topics.  If you require further information or have any questions, please feel free to contact someone from the research project you want to know more about or the provincial Research Portfolio.