Enriched core competencies for health services and policy research-An update

Doctoral and postdoctoral training in health services and policy research (HSPR) needs to evolve to address changing career trajectories, emerging health system challenges, and the advancement of learning health systems. This changing landscape necessitates examination of the core competencies that underpin training. This study presents a refreshed set of core competencies for HSPR to guide the modernization of training and considerations for implementation.

Qualitative methods and an iterative development process with extensive community engagement throughout were used. Data were obtained from multiple sources, including literature reviews, surveys, key informant interviews, focus groups, Task Force meetings, a consensus workshop, and a validation process (Fall 2022 to May 2024). The study setting is Canada.

The refreshed core competencies include nine essential domains that maintain an emphasis on rigorous scholarly preparation and prioritize leadership and other professional skills deemed essential to contribute to evidence-informed system improvement and learning health systems. Additionally, the framework features two new transversal domains: Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility, and Anti-Oppression; and Indigenous Cultural Safety and Humility. These domains are considered fundamental principles to be embedded into all aspects of HSPR competencies and training, fostering more inclusive and equitable leaders and health systems.

As health systems continuously evolve, so too should the questions researchers address, the methods they use, and the skills needed to maximize contributions to evidence-informed health system improvement and learning health systems. The refreshed core competencies for HSPR maintain important continuity with the inaugural competency framework while also including several important additions. The framework allows for flexibility in its implementation and us; it can be used to guide the enhancement of existing training programs, the development of new ones, and the growth and development of a HSPR workforce with the skills to lead and contribute within learning health systems.