In a groundbreaking collaboration, Scarborough Hospital, the University of Birmingham, and the University of York have been awarded prestigious national funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).
This funding will support a pioneering study aimed at enhancing urgent and emergency care for patients residing in rural coastal areas.
The research, spearheaded by Dr Arabella Scantlebury from the University of Birmingham and Professor Joy Adamson from the University of York, aims to address the unique challenges faced by rural coastal emergency departments. These departments often experience heightened demand, particularly during the summer months when holidaymakers flock to the coast, leading to overcrowded emergency services.
Residents of rural coastal areas frequently contend with poorer health outcomes and lower life expectancies compared to urban populations. By focusing on the specific needs and issues of local patients, this study seeks to determine how the NHS can most effectively deliver emergency care in these underserved regions.
The initiative is a collaborative effort involving multiple universities and health care organisations across the UK. The Research and Innovation Department at York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust will provide crucial support as the project officially launches in February.
Dr Scantlebury commented:
“Developing ways of providing urgent and emergency care in rural and coastal areas in an equitable way is a priority for the NHS and the UK Government. Changes need to be designed with the needs of local patients and local problems in mind.
“As such, local community groups from Scarborough are helping to make sure the research addresses issues that are important to people living in rural coastal communities. These communities are often diverse, and the researchers want to make sure the project helps and represents as many people as possible.”
Local support has also played a pivotal role in securing the funding, with Scarborough residents offering valuable feedback during the funding bid. Community groups such as Age UK (North Yorkshire Coast and Moors) and SeeCHANGE continue to engage with researchers, ensuring that the study remains closely aligned with the needs of the community.
The findings of this study, expected to be released in 2027, will provide vital insights for national and international decision-makers on optimising urgent emergency care for rural coastal areas. This research represents a significant step forward in ensuring that patients in these regions receive the high-quality care they deserve.
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