DOI RECORD
CIHR-IPPH investments in public health systems and services research | A theory of change to drive impact
Abstract
Abstract This commentary elucidates the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Institute of Population and Public Health’s (IPPH) bolstering of public health systems and services research (PHSSR), by way of its current strategic plan and the launch of two new funding opportunities. The investments advance IPPH’s commitment to strengthening the field of PHSSR, address national calls to bolster PHSSR in Canada, and scaffold on past IPPH investments. PHSSR has potential to inform public health practice and policy, while being responsive to real-world public health priorities and agendas. Our commentary focuses on Strengthening Equitable and Resilient Public Health Systems (STEPS) as an innovative funding program with impactful design elements, including an emphasis on health equity, systems research, knowledge mobilization, and the inter-dependent roles of the public and community sectors at the core of Canadian public health systems. We propose a theory of change on the value-add of PHSSR in driving systems change and in advancing resilient, high-performing, and equitable public health systems. This commentary contributes to the literature by highlighting the promise of PHSSR in Canada, describing STEPS as the first major Canadian funding program on PHSSR, and proposing a theory of change to drive systems change and impact.