Better Together

In contrast to previous public health crises, we may not see major calls for the revitalization of public health following the the COVID-19 pandemic. But a vibrant and effective public health system will be necessary to protect and improve the health of Canadians and their healthcare system. Public health leaders may want to focus on those factors, independent of new investments, that can best build resilience and trust in public health. This talk will explore some potential transformations in how we design, communicate, and sustain public health efforts for the future.

This panel will explore the evolution of public health research in Canada, examining key lessons learned and recurring challenges from past and current endeavours. Experts will delve into how historical insights can inform future strategies and innovations, aiming to avoid past mistakes and advance the field with new, evidence-based approaches. Join us as we chart the path forward for a more effective and equitable public health landscape.

Building on discussions from the first panel, this session will feature emerging voices in public health research—trainees who are at the forefront of integrating new technologies and trends into their research. They will share their insights on how current technologies and phenomena including social media, political polarization, disinformation, and citizen movements are shaping the future of evidence-informed public health research, and how their current training equips them to address these evolving challenges and opportunities.

This panel will delve into the diverse governance structures of public health research and institutions across various Canadian provinces and organizations, with a focus on how these frameworks influence research integration and public trust. Experts will discuss the strengths and weaknesses of their respective governance models, with Alberta's current uncertainties as a key example. The session will also explore federal-provincial tensions, the intersection of medical and public health leadership, and the complexities of addressing equity and reconciliation in public health governance.

Join us for an engaging virtual fireside chat with the heads of CIHR’s public health-related entities as they discuss the advantages and challenges of a broad definition of public health. This conversation will explore the implications of this expansive view on public health research and policy, offering insights from the Institute of Population and Public Health, the Institute for Health Systems and Policy Research, and the Centre for Research on Pandemic Preparedness and Health Emergencies.