Abstract
Appropriate standardized research grouping is important for research management of researchers,
research institutes and funding agencies. Health research funding agencies in Thailand have different
management policies and system regarding allocation of funds. As a result, there exists a gap in the information
on which areas of research are progressive. Grouping research projects properly, in the same standard
with other funding agencies, will not only strengthen the funding strategy of each agency, but also
help avoid the duplication of research funding in one area with less funding in another.
This study aimed to review the health research classifications in high-income countries in order to
have a basis for recommendations to Thai health research. Literature review was conducted to find the
key characteristics of successful research classification systems. Five countries were selected for review of
best research classification. These countries include: Australia, Germany, New Zealand, United Kingdom
and United States.
The study found the following six principles of successful research classification systems: 1) simplicity
2) relevance 3) consistency 4) standard 5) multi-dimensionality and 6) flexibility. From assessing the
research classifications in five countries, we concluded that the Health Research Classification System
(HRCS) of the UK Clinical Research Collaboration. (UKCRC) met all six principles. Therefore, based on
this study, we recommended the adoption of the HRCS classification systems. Furthermore, we recommended
adding the health policy and system research as a new classification in order to aid with policy
development and implementation in Thailand. In conclusion, health research funding agencies should
apply the same classification standards.
