For patients

Clinical research is how we develop new treatments and our knowledge for better health and care, building the evidence for new approaches that are safe and effective.

Our clinical research could not happen without you. With your help, we can gain a better understanding of the conditions we treat, improve our healthcare and ultimately save lives.
 

There are a number of different types of research studies including questionnaire studies, genetic studies and studies used to test new treatments, approaches or technologies to see whether they are effective. They help us to understand how to improve treatments. When your doctor decides on a course of treatment for you, they will often be using the results of previous trials to make that decision. Other research studies help better understand health and specific conditions.

Overall the aim of research is to;

• develop new treatments and medicines
• prevent illnesses
• improve quality of life
• improve our understanding of medical conditions
• understand the emotional and physical support you need if you're living with a medical condition

Previous participants have told us that if you take part in a research study you:
 

• will be helping others, and possibly yourself, by helping to identify more effective medical treatments
• may have more contact with medical staff than you normally do
• will have opportunities to learn more about your medical condition, which may help you to manage it better
• may feel as though you are taking a more active role in your healthcare

Many of our patients who have taken part in research have found it a positive and rewarding process.

We work with patient and public volunteers to conduct research driving the next generation of treatments and care.  Some trials involve healthy members of the public, while others involve patients taking part in a trial during their care and treatment. Your involvement and the time required depends on what is being investigated.

At UHDB, we have a dedicated team of trained experienced research nurses, midwives, practitioners and HCAs that work with your doctors to support patients on clinical trials. We work across all research active specialities. If you are a patient at UHDB, you may be invited to take part in a study or trial. It is voluntary and entirely up to you whether or not you wish to get involved. If you decide not to participate, be assured that it will not affect your treatment in any way.