Abstract
present, research to improve and promote health as well as well being of the populations, to reduce unnecessary health expenses, and to increase national economic opportunities in health related markets, has become a notable national health policy of the Royal Thai Government (RTG). Discussions and debates are thus going on about an appropriate structure of the future National Health System Research. Within this structure, health research institutes in universities are hypothesized to be an important foundation of the system. The purpose of this study is to identify ways and means to support and strengthen health research institutes in Thai universities. Document research, group discussions, a reflection technique and case studies (six health research institutes in Mahidol University and Chulalongkorn University) were adopted.Results indicate that it is necessary for the RTG to urgently draw up a road map to systematically strengthen health research institutes in universities. Action is needed in terms of significant investments in economic means, organization and human resources. An ability to adjust to changes, change management skills and leadership in health research institutes in universities, are identified as essential elements in this development process.Key development strategy is a proposal to the RTG to set up a National Network of Health Research Institutes (NNHRI), which consists of health research institutes at many levels, including those in universities, as well as families, the smallest units in society. Proposed objectives for NNHRI are: to systematically support and strengthen health research institutes in the country, to promote diversity in organizational structures and management styles leading to effective performances and good governance in health research institutes, to support proactive human resource development in both technical and management skills at all levels, to create a culture -- “Knowledge is important for health development in Thai society”-- by giving priority to effective and sustained stakeholder communication to empower health research institutes and to elevate efficiency and sustainability of health research development in Thailand.
