In July 2023, Health Research BC launched three studies aimed at benefitting BC’s life sciences sector and health research system. These studies have now been completed, offering valuable insights into the province’s health research system, talent development, and clinical trials sector. This comprehensive overview of BC’s health research environment will help inform policy decisions and strategic planning.

Study: BC Health Research System Rapid Assessment

Purpose 

In collaboration with the Health Research Council of BC, Health Research BC conducted a high-level assessment to evaluate strengths, weaknesses and opportunities for improvement in the provincial health research system. All findings were analyzed according to the World Health Organization’s framework for health research systems and its four components — governance, financing, building capacity, and producing and using research.

Key insights  

• System strengths: BC’s health research system is characterized by world-class institutions, skilled personnel, and a collaborative interest in building a strong health research environment.
• Governance: Opportunities exist to enhance coordination and leadership within the system. This includes establishing a unified provincial vision, setting clear research priorities, standardizing processes, and implementing mechanisms to measure and evaluate impact.
• Data accessibility: The Ministry of Health’s leadership on accessible data for research were appreciated, though challenges remain in consistent access. Additionally, the integration of research evidence into practice and policy requires greater efforts from the broader research community.
• Inequity: Disparities in health care and health outcomes are stark, especially for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit people. Applying decolonizing and equity, diversity, and inclusion lenses to future work will be critical to strengthening our health research system.

Study: Advancing Research Talent in British Columbia

Purpose 

Academic career pathways are changing, and it is more important than ever to support research talent in ways that reflect current and future realities.

In this context, Michael Smith Health Research BC has published a new report titled “Advancing Research Talent in British Columbia,” which explores the impact of our Scholar and Research Trainee programs on nurturing health research talent in the province.

This review spans 20 years of program data, complemented by insights from other health research funding agencies, interviews with BC research leaders, and surveys of current and past awardees.

 Key insights 

• Impact of funding programs: The Scholar and Research Trainee programs have been instrumental in enabling recipients to pursue research careers, develop independent research programs, and attract additional funding. 

• Career paths and retention: Academic careers remain the primary sector for awarded talent, and most awardees stay in Canada, particularly in British Columbia. 

• Equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI): While Health Research BC has made progress in advancing EDI through its funding programs, there is a need for more targeted support and innovative approaches to addressing systemic inequities. 

• Adapting to changing needs: Research talent needs are evolving, and funding programs must support diverse career pathways across sectors. 

Study: Economic Impacts of Clinical Research in BC

Purpose 

Building upon a 2013 review, Health Research BC commissioned an economic analysis to help inform next steps for expanding clinical trials capacity in BC. With the Government of BC’s recent Life Sciences and Biomanufacturing Strategy highlighting the critical role of clinical trials, this study examined both the direct effects of clinical research activities and their broader economic impact on the province over the past decade.

 Key insights 

• When adjusting for inflation, economic spending on clinical research remains flat despite an uptick in spending related to the COVID-19 pandemic
• Despite limited change in spending, BC’s clinical research footprint has increased
• Federal funding flowing into provincial health research remains critical and consistent
• A data reporting system for efficiently pulling comprehensive economic data on clinical research and clinical trials activity at the provincial, regional and local levels is needed.