“The Need of Policy-based Health Systems Research and Training in the Mountainous Regions of Crete” Prof. Dr. A. Philalithis, Vice Rector, UoC, Assoc. Professor of Social Medicine, Director of the Department of Social Medicine, University of Crete, School of Medicine. Presentation at the Workshop of the University of the Mountains, Heraklion, 2 June 2010.

Some historical references The UoC, and the Faculty of Medicine in particular, were established at a time of political and social reform – the 1980’s. The Medical School developed a strong and unique link to Primary Health Care and to the Community.

Community oriented activities (examples) Teaching medical students in Primary Care Centres Developing a research network with PHC Doing research on the Mediterranean diet and nutrition Organizing a Master in Public Health and Health Care Management Setting up a mobile ophthalmology unit Carrying out screening of isolated mountain and island populations

Prerequisites for sustainability in Community oriented efforts Develop a clear concept of the project Make it relevant to the community’s needs Make sure that the organizational requirements are met Develop an institutional setting for the project Assure that funding is available for the whole period of the project