Royal Roads University today took a major step into the health care leadership arena by launching the new Centre for Health Leadership and Research.
"Building on Royal Roads University´s strong reputation in leadership development through our Master of Arts in Health Leadership program, this Centre will bring together many of the country´s top health professional groups, research agencies and health authorities to seek innovative solutions to the issues and challenges affecting health systems and health care delivery," said Graham Dickson, the new Director of the Centre.
The new Centre on the university campus aims to stimulate national and international collaboration and provide applied research to health sector agencies and other stakeholders interested in nurturing leadership and accountability in large health care systems. The Centre will publish manuals and other publications that contribute to strategic leadership and knowledge in the health systems field.
"The continuing attention and focus on challenges within the health system highlight the need for quality leadership in that sector," said Dickson. "Health is the largest employment sector in Canada and is going through massive change, with much more to come. All of the succession issues facing other sectors are facing the health sector in spades, particularly in the field of leadership." To this end, the Centre will be working with the Health Care Leaders´ Association of B.C., other post-secondary institutions, such as the University of British Columbia, and the B.C. health authorities, in implementing a comprehensive leadership development program across B.C., entitled "Leaders for Life."
Beginning in January 2007, the Centre will offer a Graduate Certificate in Health Systems Leadership, emphasizing how leaders can work together to develop an evidence-informed health system. The certificate program will be offered in partnership with the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation and the Canadian College of Health Services Executives.
Through the development and delivery of its leadership programs over the past 10 years, Royal Roads University has received significant support from within the B.C. health sector, including the provincial health authorities and the Ministry of Health. In addition, the Centre will pursue opportunities to expand emerging and existing relationships with several national health organizations, such as the Canadian College of Health Service Executives and the Canadian Medical Association, in the field of applied research and leadership development.
For media queries, contact:
Communications Officer, Phil Saunders
phil.saunders[at]royalroads.ca (250) 391-2526, cel (250) 812-5065 or,
Communication Manager, Stephanie Slater
stephanie.slater[at]royalroads.ca (250) 391-2712, cel (250) 361-5020