Abstract
Background Research is fundamental to improving quality of care. Although research traditionally has impact through implementation into routine care, there is increasing interest in whether participation in research itself drives better performance. The bulk of patient contacts are through general practice. If research participation improves outcomes, achieving those benefits through general practice could improve population health. However, the evidence that research activity improves outcomes mostly comes from secondary care. The same benefits may not occur in general practice. There is a need to use the wealth of data on research activity and general practice outcomes to provide a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between research activity and patient care.
Aim
We will answer the following research questions: 1. Are there associations between research activity in general practice and patient outcomes? 2. What possible mechanisms may explain the associations between research activity and patient outcomes? 3. What are the characteristics of effective research active general practices from the perspective of staff, practitioners and patients? 4. What are the impacts on patients and staff of research activity in general practice? 5. How can research in general practice be encouraged and supported? What factors facilitate or inhibit research activity in general practice?
Intended Impact of the Study
We will explore the implications of our findings for the Primary Care Network contract, CQC inspections and the uptake of existing schemes such as CPRD and Research Ready status.
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Expected completion date: October 31, 2022