Project and PPI overview

The stage in the research cycle: Identifying & Prioritising, Design, Undertaking/Management,Dissemination, Implementation

Type of research award: Infrastructure Award

Title of research grant: HRB Primary Care Clinical Trials Network Ireland (CTNI)

Principal Investigator on the award: Professor Andrew W Murphy

Aims of the project  

The HRB Primary Care Clinical Trials Network Ireland (CTNI) aims to improve individual patient health and health care through the design, conduct and dissemination of high quality, internationally recognised, randomised trials in Irish primary care, which address important and common problems.

How were people found who wanted to be involved?

A PPI group was established in 2015, with people identified through community advertisements and personal networks. Our members come from urban and rural areas, they include a mix of age, nationality and gender. Each person has their own life experiences of interacting with the health care system and with family doctors in particular, which gives an interesting range of experiences to draw on when considering various questions about our research.

How were people involved?

Since its establishment, the group has met 24 times, advising primary care researchers from institutions across Ireland. They have, for example, advised on national and international funding applications, GDPR-related issues, and how to establish PPI groups in other areas. They have helped organise 5 national PPI conferences, and contributed to the development of a Science on Screen documentary (http://www.galwayfilmcentre.ie/2019/11/04/world-premiere-of-new-science-on-screen-documentary-the-patient-effect/)

What training and support was offered?

Members of the group are supported at each meeting by a trained facilitator who coordinates group discussions. Individual group members have also attended specific training opportunities, such as grant reviewing with the HRB, and systematic reviews with Evidence Synthesis Ireland.

What difference did public involvement make?

This group now acts as a ‘go-to’ national resource for PPI in primary care research. The work of the group has contributed immensely to the operations and success of the HRB Primary Care CTNI.

What would you advise researchers about involvement?

It takes time and commitment to do PPI well, but the rewards are huge.

Contact details: Patrick Murphy (Development manager) & Martha Killilea (Research assistant)info@primarycaretrials.ie