Knowledge and Quality Innovation in the Health Sector: The Role of Public Research Organisations

Abstract

In the pursuit of innovation and quality, firms interact with other organizations, such as firms, universities, research centres, and governmental institutions, to exchange, gain, and develop various kinds of knowledge and other resources. This chapter explores the role of Public Research Organizations (PRO)1 in the innovation process of the health sector in Mexico. Patient indicators are used in order to give account of the role of PRO in that process. Some patterns are identified regarding PROs’ main research and inventive activities and the type of collaboration they have had with other agents. Findings substantiate that collaboration between PRO and other actors are too weak. However, they have built capabilities orientated to the development of artefacts (new or improved products), methods (for diagnosis, clinical testing, and attack of particular diseases) and vaccines-substances (for tackling existing or new diseases).