Health systems research (HSR) is increasingly recognised for its role in informing policy and decision-making at national and local levels. HSR provides the data necessary to narrow the gap between research and clinical practice. China was commended in Changing Mindsets: Strategy on Health Policy and Systems Research for its visionary approach in designing health reform based on HSR and as a result avoiding potential barriers to policy implementation [1]. The 3C Study was designed by the International Diabetes Federation in collaboration with the Chinese Diabetes Society (CDS) in response to local demand for data on Type 1 diabetes.
