25.05.12
Only 21% of patients aware of NHS research role
The majority of patients are unaware that research is a key part of NHS work, a new survey suggests. The National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) is concerned that patients may be missing out on opportunities to take part in clinical research trials.
The NIHR commissioned a survey which revealed that only 21% were aware of the NHS’s research work. However, 82% thought it was important, and less than 7% said they would never take part in a clinical trial.
The NIHR has recruited over half a million NHS patient volunteers over the last year and is calling for greater awareness about the role of research in the NHS.
Dr Jonathan Sheffield, chief executive of the NIHR, said: “Research is core business for the NHS, so we need to encourage patients to be more demanding of their doctors and NHS institutions when it comes to offering the chance to take part in research activity. We also need to do everything we can to encourage a research culture at all levels in the NHS. It is high time that NHS Trust boards put research on their radar.
“Research is not just an activity for the big teaching hospitals. We need district hospitals and GP surgeries to rise to the challenge. Many have already started to do so, but it's important that it keeps progressing. With an ageing population, the demands on our health service just continue to grow. Research is the best way we have to work out the most effective and efficient ways to meet patients needs. We need to take note of this survey, and keep pushing for research to have the profile it deserves with doctors and their patients.”
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