[The institutionalization of public health in Spain (II)]

The long-standing delay in the institutionalization of public health in Spain is directly related, both as a cause or effect, to its academic and professional weaknesses. This second part examines the necessary, yet challenging, relationship between academia and administration, describing how public health research and training have developed in the country, primarily since the transition to democracy. One of the keys to consolidating the progress already made is connecting the day-to-day work of research with professional practice. That is linking the knowledge generated through research and innovation with the implementation of policies and programs. Investing in research and professional training, with sufficient and sustained resources, is the best way to prepare ourselves to face the present and future challenges of public health. Scientific societies play a unique role in connecting academia and administration.