Clinical Research Trials/Studies

At Trinity Court Surgery, we are proud to be a research-active practice committed to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient care. Our involvement in medical research means we regularly invite patients and staff to participate in studies, whether through questionnaires, clinical appointments, or targeted research invitations.

Working closely with the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), our team—including two highly skilled doctors and a dedicated NIHR research nurse—conducts rigorous and impactful studies on site at Trinity Court. Currently, we are engaged in eight ongoing research trials, reflecting our dedication to pioneering new treatments and enhancing existing healthcare practices.

These studies are vital to developing new therapies and improving healthcare standards, ensuring that our patients benefit from the most advanced and effective care available. By integrating cutting-edge research with everyday clinical practice, Trinity Court Surgery strives to contribute meaningfully to the broader medical community and the health of our patients.

Who are the NIHR?

In 2006 the Department of Health set up The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) to improve the health and wealth of the nation through research.

The NIHR Research Delivery Network (RDN) was introduced to provide the infrastructure to the NHS to allow high quality research to be set up and delivered efficiently and effectively.

To find out more about the work of the NIHR Research Delivery Network go to www.rdn.nihr.ac.uk.

Research studies in general practice are vital for several reasons:

Improving Patient Care: Research helps identify best practices, leading to better treatment protocols and patient outcomes. It allows for the development of evidence-based guidelines tailored to the primary care setting.
Early Detection and Prevention: By participating in research, Doctors can contribute to studies focused on early detection and preventive measures, potentially reducing the incidence and severity of diseases.
Tailoring Treatments: Research can lead to more personalised medicine approaches, as studies often explore the effectiveness of treatments across different populations and conditions commonly seen in primary care.
Addressing Real-World Problems: Research conducted in the actual environment where patients receive care ensures that findings are applicable and practical, addressing real-world issues faced by primary care providers.
Professional Development: Involvement in research keeps Doctors up-to-date with the latest medical advancements as well as contributing to continuous professional development.
Enhancing Health Systems: Research can inform health policy and resource allocation, leading to more efficient and effective healthcare systems.
Patient Engagement: Offering patients the opportunity to participate in research can increase their engagement and investment in their own healthcare, fostering a collaborative approach to health management.
Public Health Contributions: Research in primary care settings contributes valuable data that can be used to track health trends, evaluate public health interventions, and improve overall community health.

Overall, research in General Practice is crucial for advancing medical knowledge, improving healthcare delivery, and ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.

Patient Participation

There are different ways that patients can become involved in studies our practice is participating in.

A Doctor or nurse may talk to you about the study and ask whether you would consider taking part.
You will be sent information through the post if we feel that you might be a suitable participant.
You may read information on the website about a current study and wish to take part by contacting the practice.
Patients who express an interest in finding out more about a study will be asked for their permission to share their name and contact details with the study team. Some studies require direct contact between participants and the team, others involve contact through a member of practice staff or with a Primary Care Research Network research nurse.
Participation in research is entirely voluntary and you have the right to say ‘No’. Nobody will put pressure on you to take part in research if you do not wish to. You do not have to give us a reason if you decide not to take part.
The practice will usually provide you with a patient information sheet; then, if you agree to take part, the study team will explain the study to you in more detail and you will have the opportunity to ask questions about it.

All clinical research carried out at our surgery is thoroughly checked and approved by ethical committees. Your participation is entirely voluntary and can be withdrawn by yourself at any time without any explanation required.

You are under no obligation to participate in any research project

Your care and your relationship with your Doctor will not be affected in any way if you decided not to take part in a research study

You will not be asked to take part in a large number of studies. Most researchers are very specific about the criteria that people need to meet in order to enter their study. Usually this means that only a relatively small number of patients at the practice will be suitable for any one study.

GCP Trained Staff at Trinity Court & Claverdon Surgeries

Dr Jon Radford (Research Lead)
Dr Libby Coakley (Acting Research Lead)
Sarah Joshi (NIHR Research Nurse)
Jessica Mitchell (Research Administrator)