Research is a systematic search for information and new knowledge. It covers topics in every field of science and perceptions of its scope and activities are unlimited. The classical broad divisions of research are: basic and applied research. The basic research is necessary to generate new knowledge and technologies to deal with major unresolved health problems.
On the other hand, applied research is necessary to identify priority problems and to design and evaluate policies and programs that will deliver the greatest health benefit, making optimal use of available resources.