Opinion Piece: Why communications is necessary for health systems research.

Communications is one of the most integral components in any system. As systems are composed of various units, communicating among each unit allows for the system to achieve its function. If said medium is efficient, It allows for equitable resource allocation while providing a medium by which data may be collected and studied.

What is Health Systems Research?

Why Talk About Communications?

In my opinion, communications is integral to the sustainable and fluid functioning of any health system. Whether by reporting or effective social messaging, the need of long term study can be demonstrated and thereby funding secured for continued study. For health systems research, it allows for effective data retrieval and sensible comprehension of the results. As a health system is accountable to the society it serves, it is necessary to adopt specific messaging vehicles that reach the national audience and maximizes on exposure.

Understanding the message itself is a whole different ball game; the comprehension of the message you communicate varies based on culture and other socio-economic factors. You could positively or negatively frame your health promotion and education messages with varying behavioral change effects on message recipients. Listen to this short clip on “the power of words” by the 2015 World Champion of Public Speaking. I believe he outlines the power of messaging quite simply.

Communications is necessary for health systems research because it involves people, institutions and activities to function equitably and effectively. One must communicate well in order to achieve efficient functioning of various component pieces or partners, prevent the unnecessary allocation of resources and adhere to leading standards of practice. Above all, your message should answer the most important question...

Why should I care about your MESSAGE?

When receiving any health message, an organization or individual should obviously tailor communications to the audience and answer the aforementioned question well. Whether by the use of templates or creative messaging, vivid and clear communications are what will help you achieve your objective. I personally believe in the power of story telling. Stories are learnt but they can also be relayed to another very easily. 

So why is communications necessary for health systems research? 

Communications lead, inform, motivate and inspire the positive change we wish to see in the world. Isn't this why we go into research?