Building institutions for health and health systems in contexts of rapid change

► Much of Asia is experiencing rapid changes which are enabling people to escape poverty but is exposing them to risks. ► An effective health system can mitigate risks associated with rapid change. ► Many health sectors increasingly resemble a complex adaptive system. ► Health can learn strategies from other sectors on how to create resilient institutions in dynamic and complex contexts. ► Research agendas should take into account the information needs of those responsible for managing complex health systems.