CRCP Summit 2007

February 26-27, Toronto


This first-ever gathering of Canada Research Chair holders in the disciplines of health services research, multidisciplinary health research, and population health was held at the MaRS Discovery District in Toronto in February 2007. This event was generously support by two Programs of Health Canada:  
1) Canada Research Chairs (CRC); and
2) the Policy and Analysis Unit, Primary and Continuing Health Care Division.

The main objectives, apart from having this group meet each other face-to-face, were to develop a shared appreciation of collective catalytic and transformational capacity;  promote 'big thinking' in relation to future research initiatives;  establish a virtual think-tank of leaders that influence public debate and decision-making in relation to health and the Canadian health system;  build supportive personal and professional networks that enable their successful navigation of an increasingly complex research, social and economic environment;  and use state-of-the -art technology to enable ongoing communication.

Among distinguished speakers and others opening, guiding and observing this event were:

  • Francois Sauve, Director of Operations, CRC and Indirect Costs Program
  • Alex Jadad, CRC in eHealth Innovation, and Convenor, geni
  • John Challis, VP (Research), Associate Provost, University of Toronto
  • John ApSimon, Executive Director, CRC Program
  • Paul Tsaparis, President and CEO, Hewlett-Packard (Canada) Ltd and representative of the Young Presidents' Organization - who was our highlighted speaker and the reception and dinner on the evening of February 26
  • Diana Royce, President, The Deerfield Group Inc - who was our Facilitator for this event
  • Peter Lewis, Vice-Dean, Research and International Relations, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto
  • Louise Rosborough, Observer, Health Canada, Policy & Analysis Unit, Primary and Continuing Health Care Division
  • Susan Snyder, CRC, Administration

Participants were divided into breakout groups, and each rotating group had an opportunity to address all three topics under discussion:  a) Member Wellbeing: Personal Strategies for Achieving Life/Work Balance;  b) Large-Scale Research and Opportunities and Platforms;  and  c) Strategies to Influence/Inform Policies.   

The interesting and candid comments that arose during these debates have provided valuable feedback to the CRC Program, and will be used to enhance its effectiveness. In addition, this event offered an opportunity for new collaborative initiatives among the attendees.   

The proceedings can be viewed by clicking here.