Bridging the gap between clinical epidemiological research and the community by strengthening community health research

Despite evidence based policies, drug availability for most common diseases varies dramatically from place to place. Furthermore, health professionals have acquired limited competences to manage an operational district after graduation. Through qualitative and quantitative research projects, we will assess various human behavioural aspects which may affect directly or indirectly the genesis and spread of drug resistance. Equally, we will assess the quality and quantity of the medicines available and assess the level of drug resistance of circulating pathogens. All research protocols will have to be approved by the relevant scientific and ethical bodies. Further, we will strengthen the community health departments of both partners to train undergraduate students as future District Medical Officers (DMOs). The service to the society is direct as the community health department will link actual ‘evidence based’ policies with the field reality and DMOs will be better trained.