WHY SHOULD HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS ENGAGE IN RESEARCH?
The Clinical Research Network (CRN) works with healthcare professionals throughout England to help promote research.
1. IT BENEFITS PATIENTS
Participating in high quality research studies can provide patients with additional treatment options. Evidence suggests that patients who receive care in research active institutions have better health outcomes than those treated n a non-research environment.
Patients who participate in research feel that:
- they have a better understanding or management of their condition
- they have additional contact and a partnership relationship with their healthcare professionals
- they can intrinsically give something back to the NHS and contribute to better healthcare
2. IT IS A PATIENT PRIORITY
2012 poll commissioned by the NIHR showed that 82% of the public feel it is important that the NHS offer opportunities to take part in research. Just 7% said they would never take part in a clinical research study.
3. IT IS IN THE NHS CONSTITUTION
The NHS constitution states ' a commitment to innovation and to the promotion and conduct of research to improve the current and future health and care of the population.'
4. IT CAN GENERATE INCOME FOR YOUR TRUST
The Association of British Pharmaceutical Industries estimates that it typically costs ~£1.15 billion for a new drug can be licensed for use. Trusts charge life sciences companies to cover the costs of conducting commercial contract studies
5. IT CAN BENEFIT YOUR CAREER
Clinical research can enhance career pathways. Delivering a well designed clinical study can not only generate new knowledge but can also have widespread benefits for patients.