2019–20 Departmental Plan: Gender-based analysis plus

An overarching CIHR GBA+ Framework (i.e., CIHR’s departmental implementation plan) has been developed to operationalize GBA+ commitments. Three streams of work fall under this Framework:

1. Sex and Gender Based Analysis (SGBA) in Research Action Plan to ensure sex and gender considerations are taken into account in CIHR-funded research;
2. CIHR Equity Strategy (with accompanying Gender Equity Framework, Indigenous Health Research Action Plan, and Official Language Action Plan) to ensure an equitable funding system; and
3. CIHR corporate policies to ensure an equitable work environment.

The CIHR GBA+ Responsibility Centre (RC) leads, enhances, supports, and monitors implementation of CIHR’s GBA+ framework and the actual practice of GBA+. CIHR has a Co-Champion model for GBA+. The Vice President, Research Programs serves as one GBA+ Co-Champion and is responsible for implementation of GBA+ across CIHR with support from the GBA+ Focal Point and staff within the Science Policy Branch. The Scientific Director, Institute of Gender and Health serves as the other GBA+ Co-Champion and provides guidance on the implementation of SGBA in the context of health research. Strategic guidance on GBA+ related matters is provided by Science Council; operational guidance and decision-making is provided by senior management.

FTEs in GBA+ Responsibility Centre and Focal Points = 4.1

Other FTE’s = 3.75

SGBA in Research Action Plan

Sex and gender differences contribute to differences in health risks, health services use, health system interaction and health outcomes. Implementation of the SGBA in Research Action Plan aims to systematically integrate sex and gender considerations into CIHR-funded research to ensure that the research we fund is relevant and impactful for Canada’s diverse population. The performance indicator “% of research that addresses sex or gender considerations” will be monitored in CIHR’s Departmental Results Framework and across CIHR’s three programs. Targets, baselines and results information for CIHR’s GBA+ will be available in the GC InfoBase. Progress of the Action Plan will be monitored by the GBA+ RC and the Results and Impact Unit.

Equity and Diversity Data Collection

CIHR’s Equity Strategy aims to identify and eliminate systemic biases against any individual or group that would hinder access to CIHR funds and to influence the larger health research enterprise to adopt more equitable practices. Reliable and comparable data is essential to identify, track and monitor equitable access to research funds which will inform actions to address inequities within CIHR’s funding systems. Since April 2018, applicants to CIHR funding programs are required to complete a self-identification questionnaire including information on gender, age, and whether they identify as Indigenous, visible minority, and/or a person with a disability. The performance indicator “# and diversity of researchers and trainees supported” will be monitored across all CIHR programs; as noted above collection of these data started in 2018–19 FY and will be reported in the Departmental Results Framework and in the Program Information Profiles. Beginning in 2019–20, collection of self-identification information will be extended to peer reviewers. Progress within CIHR’s Equity Strategy will be monitored by the GBA+RC and the Results and Impact Unit.