Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #111240

Jeanene Smith, MD, MPH¹, Lisa Krois, MPH¹, and Sherril B. Gelmon, DrPH². (1) Department of Administrative Services, State of Oregon, Office of Oregon Health Policy and Research, Public Services Building, 255 Capitol St NE, 5th floor, Salem, OR 97310, 503-378-2422 ext 420, Jeanene.A.Smith@state.or.us, (2) Hatfield School of Governement, Portland State University, Public Administration Division, URBN 650; 506 SW Mill, Portland, OR 97207

The collaborative efforts of the Office for Oregon Health Policy and Research (OHPR), Portland State University and The Oregon Health and Sciences University have produced a successful professional development program for public health graduate students in the areas of health services research and health policy.

Coordinated and directed by OHPR, the program provides Oregon's medical and graduate public health students the opportunity to cultivate professional experience and practical skills valuable to health services research - learning to translate research into language understood by policymakers to encourage evidence – based policy decisions.

Participants in the program have opportunities to design, implement and analyze health services related research significant to Oregonians. Students build their skills working with stakeholders, legislators, with access to the governor's office, and the research/policy commissions working with OHPR.

The program allows students to utilize academic training in the ‘real world' under the mentorship of experienced staff and distinguished local researchers. OHPR is able to leverage scarce resources by mentoring highly skilled students and providing a link that is often missing in the education of community health professionals- a relationship that is beneficial to all involved.

The success of this partnership is due in large part to four contributing factors: committed faculty members willing to contribute extra time, availability of OHPR resources including staff and grant monies, allowing a manageable burden to all participants and ensuring the relationship remains beneficial to all parties.

Our presentation will discuss the importance of teaching community health professionals how to translate research to policymakers.

Learning Objectives:

• 1. Articulate the need for more effective linkages between professional education and policy
• 2. Identify key factors in building a successful partnership between professional education and policy makers
• 3. Develop a plan for similar partnerships in their community

Keywords: Collaboration, Professional Development

Related Web page: egov.oregon.gov/DAS/OHPPR/RSCH/docs/OHRECprofdevlp.pdf

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Recorded presentation