In an Australian first, CQU is recognising the international importance of psycho-social aspects of health research.

A range of current and developing research projects have been consolidated into a new program - IPP-SHR (International Program of Psycho-Social Health Research).

This follows an NHMRC (National Health & Medical Research Council) research fellowship awarded to Dr Pam McGrath, from CQU's Faculty of Sciences, Engineering and Health.

The new Faculty initiative will explore a broad range of psycho-social health issues including: the lived experience of cancer patients, palliative care Indigenous, rural and remote, mental health, obstetrics, bio-ethics and the interface between patients and the health care system.

IPP-SHR is a peak international organisation representing the psychosocial health research industry.

Domestically, current projects include: Ethical Clinical Decision Making in Rural and Remote Settings; Indigenous Palliative Care; Obstetrics; Rural and Remote Issues for Haematology and Palliative Care; and Hospice Questionnaire Research.

Internationally, IPP-SHR in collaboration with the International Research Promotion Council, is conducting 2 research programs in India exploring Health Promotion Activities in relation to Preventative Cancer Strategies and is involved in a separate study exploring At-home Care services for Palliative Patients. Shortly, it is hoped that 2 research projects will be beginning in Shanghai, China and Taipei, Taiwan.

IPP-SHR will also represent the international psycho-social health research industry through publication of a quarterly newsletter, 'The Psycho-Social Update' which will highlight advances within the industry and is expected to have an preliminary international audience of more than 3000 research and health professionals.

Further information can be obtained soon via www.ipp-shr.cqu.edu.au or www.mcgrathresearch.net.au or direct from Dr Pam McGrath 07 3374 1792 or Hamish Holewa 07 3720 8084.