In 2021, the National Institute of Health, or WHO, set up the Institute of Medicine to coordinate world health and medical research. This institute advises policy makers on health needs and services. One of its six aims is to progress the knowledge of medical science and improve health. It has also set up a network of centres and journals to publish research in the field of health. The network offers access to research databases and makes available to the public research reports. 

The first aim is to define the concept of health: for which the Institute of Medicine has formulated a set of general principles and characteristics. Principles include the recognition that all humans are unique and that health is a complex phenomenon influenced by many factors. They also insist that individuals and families should be permitted to determine their own goals for health and, as part of that, the means they use to achieve those goals. It is left to the professionals to provide information and counsel to those who decide to adopt a course of action. The second aspect of the principles includes the recognition of the social function of health and the need for systems that are accountable for the health of the communities as a whole. 

The third aspect is medical education: which aims at improving the knowledge and practice of doctors and other medical practitioners. The need for comprehensive and multifaceted medical care is understood and health professionals are held accountable for ensuring this. The fourth aspect considers the economic activity of health. The good health of the society is dependent on the healthy economic performance of the nation. Therefore, public support is essential for medical research and for the institutes of medicine themselves. The fifth and most important principle is the protection of human rights. 

The sixth aim is to evaluate health programs: developed by the institute. Public understanding of health care is ensured through consistent and systematic communication about the benefits of adopting such programs. Also, the society should be informed about the means and the modes of using these programs for the overall improvement of health and society as a whole. Seventhly, it focuses on the issues affecting the major classes in society. 

Issues related to disability: social class and cultural diversity should be resolved. Education in health care also contributes to this development. Finally, health care law is considered. It aims to provide patients with access to health services and to guarantee the right to access these services. 

The institute of Medicine: has also formulated a code of principles for clinical trials. These are to be used by investigators and all persons involved in the conduct of such studies. It also provides guidelines for the protection of human subjects in research and experimentation. The National Institutes of Health also offers support to academic institutions.

Funding for such projects is primarily obtained from governmental agencies and private foundations.