Biomedical research in Quebec: the history of the Fonds de la recherche en santé du Québec

Abstract

The author describes the history of the Fonds de la recherche en santé du Québec, from after World War II to the present day. The Conseil de la recherche médicale du Québec (Quebec Medical Research Council) was created in 1964 to bring Quebec up to speed in biomedical research through programs that complemented those of the Medical Research Council of Canada. The council progressively evolved, becoming the Conseil de la recherche en santé du Québec (Quebec Health Research Council) in 1974 and the Fonds de la recherche en santé du Québec (FRSQ) in 1982. The FRSQ covers all aspects of medical research, in its broadest sense. Quebec's progress in biomedical research has been spectacular and has had direct and considerable influence on the quality of medical education and patient care. From 1982 to 1996, various Quebec governments have devoted more than +500 million to the FRSQ, a testimony to their comprehension of the importance of this area and to their farsightedness. The FRSQ and its predecessor organizations have been a major force in improving and maintaining the quality of medical teaching and care in Quebec during the last three decades.