Systems Thinking for Capacity in Health
We believe that systems thinking and complexity science can be transformational in global health by increasing local capacity and shared learning, and minimizing unintended consequences.
Commission on Smart Global Health: A Unique, Historical Opportunity?
On April 21, a group of twenty-six “prominent, accomplished leaders from the private sector, U.S. Congress, academia, media, and the security, foreign policy and global health communities” met as members of a recently formed Commission on Smart Global Health Policy. They hope to “outline a smart approach to global health that sustains U.S. leadership and seeks the greatest impact on the ground, even during a global economic crisis.”
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Their website encourages input from global health practitioners. I propose that we unite and organize ourselves so that we can approach the Commission and encourage them to place appropriate health systems at the forefront of their recommendations. I propose that we move forward as follows:
1. Advertise the Call to Action. A volunteer with the Royal College of Surgeons in Dublin, Ireland has formed a google document with organizations that we could contact, with their response. She has also volunteered to contact many of those organizations, though we could use more help. Please email ghsias@gmail.com if you are interested in helping out.
2. Approach RESULTS, the ONE Campaign, the People’s Health Movement, the Global Health Council, and other global health advocacy organizations about joining us. Please email if you are interested in being the contact person for those organizations.
3. Finally, we can approach the Commission, hopefully with the support of thousands of individuals, as well as organizations and institutions.
This may be a unique opportunity to influence global health policy for years to come!
Systems Thinking for Capacity in Health 
I fully support this call.