New Primary Care Strategy Launched
NHS North of England Commissioning Support Unit (NECS), and National Institute for Health Research Clinical Research Network North East and North Cumbria (NIHR CRN NENC), together have produced a new strategy to help improve the quantity and breadth of primary care research in the region.
Approved by the CRN NENC executive and all of the Clinical Commissioning groups (CCGs) across the region, the purpose of the paper is to “inspire the growth, delivery and adoption of primary care research”.
Its aims include to make research become core business, contribute to quality and skills of staff, improve patient outcomes and wealth, plus to support a vision of excellence of the local system and so aiding recruitment and retention of the primary care workforce.
The strategy outlines a number of areas and initiatives which will - as part of the NIHR CRN NENC’s aim - “make the North East & North Cumbria the best place to take part in research”.
Aimed at professionals working within General Practices and Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs), and taking into consideration the priorities of the emerging Integrated Care System (ICS) and primary care, the strategy encourages a culture and method of developing research that comes from everyday practice and enhances the means by which decision makers can use the evidence emerging from research to improve patient care.
Given GP's have access to every patient, opposed to those which only attend hospital, the potential for primary care research delivery is considerable and it is clear to see why it should be harnessed and focussed in the correct approach.
“We’re trying to raise our game and build research capacity in association with Health Education England North East (HEE NE) and excellent academia, helping to address the priorities.”
The strategy will aim to increase awareness to the general public about primary and community care research. Concerted PPIE support will also be brought to primary care practices and Federations to create a culture where patients are confident to ask about research studies relevant to their condition.
Dr Justine Norman, NIHR GP Research Engagement Lead, states the strategy is an “integral element to help establish a committed and productive research culture in primary care across the region.”
She adds: “With the launch of the strategy, we’re aiming to help more GPs and primary care staff to reach their potential.
“Research within primary care is a vital part to the success of the NIHR. Thanks to this strategy, we have an opportunity to change the face of primary care research in the region.
“Through working cohesively with all the key stakeholders, we can help increase primary care research capacity and influence achievements on a national basis.
“By helping to improve, harness and utilise the skills of specific staff and practices in our area, we can make a real step towards the NIHR’s aim of improving the health and wealth of the nation through research.”
The strategy is supported by the key stakeholders as members of the established Primary Care Strategy Implementation Group, to ensure the successful execution of the strategy.
Meeting quarterly and chaired by Dr Tim Butler, Assistant Medical Director NHS England (Cumbria and North East), the group will provide an oversight for assurance, challenges and opportunities to help deliver the strategy.
