Assistant Secretary, Research and Development and Health Analytics Division

Responsibility at Assistant Secretary level for ensuring that the work of the Department of Health is more evidence-informed and that the crucial contribution of research, information and innovation to wider health system improvement is more fully exploited. A key objective is to improve the quality and the relevance of the evidence base available for health policy and practice. This involves the effective deployment of information, research and economic appraisal to support the Department in its health policy and performance oversight roles. The position has a strong focus on innovation and evidence-based policy development and key to success is the creation of strong internal and external collaborative relationships towards the achievement of this goal. Such relationships extend to the international relationships and to coordination of the Department’s international responsibilities. The development of All-island cooperation in health service development and in health research are priorities for the Division. The Division also leads on key aspects of health service reform including through the Women’s Health Strategy, the development of the Health Information Bill and through its central involvement in the implementation of integrated HSE Health Regions.