New Centre for Health Services Research improving patient assessment and healthcare delivery

Given Australia’s ageing population and the growing incidence of chronic illness and frailty, investment in research to improve health outcomes for patients is imperative. UQ’s Centre for Health Services Research (CHSR) was established to meet the challenge.

The CHSR combines the capabilities and interests of three foundational centres – the Australasian Kidney Trials Network, the Centre for Online Health and the Centre for Research in Geriatric Medicine. By providing a powerful platform for health service research, and pairing consumer insight with outstanding clinical research, the CHSR strives to improve the effectiveness of health service delivery.

Led by Professor Len Gray, the CHSR’s activities sit at the interface between mature research and the clinical care setting, further focusing the existing health services research being conducted at UQ.

“It is vitally important to so many patient groups that we deliver health services efficiently,” says Professor Gray. “With our ageing population, budget pressures and continually evolving technologies, this is an ongoing challenge. Our new Centre for Health Services Research builds on the collaborative work already happening within UQ and with our external partners. It will also ensure the latest technologies are used to optimise the delivery of services to patients.”

Professor Gray is well-credentialed to lead the CHSR. He has worked in the management of public hospital and specialist aged care services for more than 15 years. His previous UQ positions include the Masonic Chair in Geriatric Medicine, Director of the Centre for Research in Geriatric Medicine, and Director of the Centre for Online Health.

Professor Gray says his particular interest is in improving the systems of patient assessment and care delivery. “This has led to research involving the development and evaluation of new systems of care – in community settings, hospitals and residential aged care. I look forward to supporting the centre’s staff and collaborators to develop programs and priorities which will ultimately improve the efficiency and effectiveness of health service delivery.”

Enabling the refinement and expansion of current programs, the CHSR will also incorporate research streams relevant to many vulnerable groups across the Australian community. By focusing on individuals who are disadvantaged due to health problems, healthcare access and health outcomes, CHSR researchers hope to develop solutions that are acceptable and sensitive to patients within Australia and around the world.