Why should I take part in research?
Research is important because it can improve healthcare by finding out what treatment works best.
Any research study you are asked to take part in has been approved by the Health Research Authority.
Research takes a variety of forms ranging from clinical trials of new drugs or surgical procedures to a questionnaire or interview.
If you are asked about participating in a research study you will be provided with full details of the study and what this means for your care.
Participation is entirely voluntary and if you do decide to take part you can withdraw at any time without it affecting your care.
If you are deciding whether to participate in a study or you are already taking part but there are things that you don’t quite understand, please always ask your research doctor or nurse, who will be happy to help answer any questions or concerns.
For more information, visit the Health Research Authority.
What to do if you are interested
Speak to your healthcare professional and let them know you’re interested in taking part in research.
They will contact our research staff to see if there are any suitable studies for you.
There’s lots of information on the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) website about taking part in research.
Search for possible studies that you’re interested in on the Be Part of Research website from the NIHR.
Contact our research and development team to find out if studies you are interested in are open in our trust by emailing us at [email protected].
You could also have a look at the regional NIHR research page.
How do our patients feel about being involved in research?
A comprehensive explanation of clinical trials can be found on the NIHR website.
Please email us to tell us what areas or topics you would like to see more research in. Put the subject “patient topics for research” in your email subject field and send to [email protected].
Taking part in a research trial and travel insurance
Participation in a clinical trial should not carry any additional risk that would cause increased travel insurance premiums.
Questions about participation in clinical trials are not part of routine screening questions. Please see the clinical trial and travel insurance document for more information.