We are a research practice and we take part in the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) . The NIHR is funded by the Department of Health and is the research arm of the NHS. They provide data for patients from a primary care perspective. It is also part of the Clinical Research Network (CRN) North East and Cumbria.
The research is used to find the causes of diseases, to find better treatments and services and to improve patient care. In other words – to find better ways of looking after patients and keeping people healthy.
Our research activity is funded by the CRN, so it does not come out of the practice’s own budget and therefore does not affect our patients’ services.
A key requirement for anyone involved in the conduct of clinical research is Good Clinical Practice for research (GCP) training. GCP is the guideline and standard to which all NHS research is conducted.
What is Primary Care Research?
The CRN Primary Care speciality works in collaboration with researchers and primary care practitioners, such as GP’s, practice nurses, pharmacists and dentists, to promote the successful delivery of research studies in the NHS. A wide range of research studies are supported, including those which look at:
• Promoting a healthier lifestyle
• Disease diagnosis and prevention
• Management of long-term illnesses such as diabetes or hypertension
• Prevention of future ill-health
• Treating common conditions such as tonsillitis or influenza
What are the Benefits of GP practices taking part in Research?
• It offers patients access to new treatments
• It brings a new dimension to practice and added skills to those involved
• It provides national gold-standard training for research
• It offers mentorship and support to those involved in research within practice
How can you help and take part?
You may be sent information via text, email or through the post if we feel you could be a suitable participant.
You will always receive clear information about what taking part in a research study will involve. You will have the opportunity to ask questions and obtain further details about a study.
All clinical research carried out is thoroughly checked and approved by ethical committees thus ensuring it is appropriate and safe to perform.
If you do agree to take part in a study you will be asked to sign a consent form. This will clearly state which parts of your notes (if any) may be looked at for the purposes of the research study. Nobody from outside this practice will be given your contact details or have access to your medical records without your prior consent.
Your participation in any research project is entirely voluntary. You can withdraw yourself at any time without any need for an explanation.
Your care and your relationship with your doctor or nurse will not be affected in any way if you decided not to take part in a research study.
You can visit the National Institute for Health Research website to find out more information about research in primary care.
There is also information about research for patients on the NHS Choices website.
We are very grateful to any of our patients that have taken part in these studies in the past and would encourage patients to become involved in the future.
