The Gelephu CRRH has established a Health and Medical Research Centre in Gelephu Mindfulness City, aiming to become a world-leading institution in Bhutan’s health research landscape. The centre, a first of its kind, will attract domestic researchers and international collaboration. Medical professionals believe the research center at GMC can integrate with larger institutions, expanding its role and network. The center has the potential to develop test kits and market them globally, and could become a mobile, institution-based center in future plans. The research centre, run by KGUMSB, will involve health staff volunteering to improve healthcare services and patient outcomes by advancing disease research, developing innovative medical technologies, generating high-quality data, and supporting evidence-based policymaking, thereby elevating Bhutan’s research profile.
Research in Bhutan contributes to national economic and social well-being by reducing healthcare costs, enhancing workforce productivity, and improving quality of life through data-driven policymaking. A robust research ecosystem requires clear policy guidelines from the Health Ministry and funding directives from the Finance Ministry. Dr. Thinley Dorji suggests a streamlined process for foreign research funding and hosting regular scientific conferences. The CRRH launched its 2024 annual report.