Stronger Research Environments Through Increased Collaboration
Representatives from Skellefteå Municipality, Region Västerbotten, Umeå University, and Luleå University of Technology gathered to discuss how research in healthcare and social services can be strengthened through deeper collaboration.
Collaborative Research Strategy
Region Västerbotten’s Research and Development Director Göran Larsson emphasized the critical need for collaboration between region, municipality, and academia to enable relevant and practice-oriented research.
”To succeed in the transformation towards closer healthcare, research must be rooted in the entire care chain. This requires a close and long-term collaboration between region, municipality, and academia,” said Göran Larsson.
Key Discussion Points
- Current research environments in Skellefteå
- Ongoing and planned research initiatives
- Experiences from previous regional collaborations
Challenges and Opportunities
Municipal leaders Katarzyna Wikström and Ingrid Thylin highlighted the complexity of research across different administrative boundaries, while also acknowledging new regulations driving increased collaboration on health and well-being.
”COVID research is a clear example. Much research was conducted in specialized healthcare, while a significant patient group existed in the municipal context. This demonstrates our interdependence in obtaining a comprehensive picture,” noted Ove Andrén, Medical Advisor at RCC North.
Workshop Outcomes
The meeting concluded with a workshop focusing on connecting healthcare and social service research locally and regionally. Key discussion areas included:
- Identifying existing connection points in Skellefteå
- Identifying shared research questions
- Methodological support
- Recruitment strategies
- Attracting researchers and doctoral candidates
Doctoral students particularly emphasized the importance of long-term networks, common meeting places, and clear collaboration structures.
”In Skellefteå, several research environments in healthcare and social services currently exist within the municipality, hospital, and Campus Skellefteå. To strengthen research, we need to improve our ability to connect these environments,” said Ida Lindh, Research and Development Strategist at Skellefteå Municipality.
Conclusion
The meeting represented a significant step in establishing long-term structures for research and innovation in healthcare, health, and social services in Skellefteå, with a focus on formulating research questions based on operational needs and current knowledge.
