What is Patient & Public Involvement?
Patient and Public Involvement in research is described as research being carried out ‘with’ or ‘by’ members of the public rather than ‘to’, ‘about’ or ‘for’ them. It is an active partnership between patients, the public, and researchers in the research process.
Who are patients and the public?
When referring to 'patients' and 'the public', we follow the NIHR definition, including: patients and potential patients, people who use health and social care services, carers, people from organisations that represent people who use services, and study participants.
How has PPI been embedded at NWORTH CTU?
Public involvement is central to what we do at NWORTH. Previously, all our PPI activity has been coordinated and overseen by PARC-ÑÇÖÞÉ«°É (Population Advice for Research Committee), our public involvement and engagement group.  PARC-ÑÇÖÞÉ«°É was made up of patients, service users, carers, and family members, together with NWORTH staff to develop and promote active involvement of patients in our studies. Members used their experiences to provide advice and contribute to:Â
- research priorities
- research design
- funding applications
- study documentation.
- Trial committees and management groups. Â
Our final meeting took place on 21st March 2024, where we reflected with members on the successes of PARC-ÑÇÖÞÉ«°É, and our vision for future PPI activity, which will be centrally coordinated through the North Wales Medical School moving forwards.Â
Why involve patients & the public in clinical research?
Insights from patients has enabled NWORTH to ensure the studies we lead and support are relevant to the people of North Wales, and beyond. Some of the general benefits of involving patients and the public in clinical research include:Â
- Improving the relevance of research carried out:Â patients can influence which research areas
- Improving inclusivity:Â Â patients from all groups can share their experiences, ensuring diverse perspectives and needs are met.
- Increasing transparency throughout the research pathway:Â from funding prioritisation to service delivery.Â
- Increasing accessibility of trials:Â patients can input into study design and share their insights on how to remove barriers to participation, e.g. by increasing use of digital technologies.
- Improving dissemination of research results:Â patients can help ensure that findings are provided in an easy to understand manner, and disseminated in a way that people can access.
How can I get involved?
Involvement in NWORTH's clinical research activity is coordinated through the North Wales Medical School. If you would like to find out more and hear about upcoming opportunities, keep an eye on the North Wales Medical School ±è²¹²µ±ð²õ.Ìý