Evidence Library

image_pdfimage_print

Title: Involving consumers in research and development agenda setting for the NHS: developing an evidence-based approach.
Author: Oliver, S., Clarke-Jones, L., Rees, R., Milne, R., Buchanan, P., Gabbay, J., Gyte, G., Oakley, A. & Stein, K.
Date Published: 2004
Reference: Health Technology Assessment, 8(15).
Are service users or carers authors: No/Not Known

Abstract:

Aim: To look at the processes and outcomes of involving consumers in identifying and prioritising research topics. This included involvement in national and regional R&D programmes in health and other areas. The goal was to find out what helps or hinders consumer involvement in agenda setting.

Method: The authors carried out a systematic literature review and interviews with consumers and research managers in the UK.
 
Findings/recommendations: Successful consumer involvement in research agenda setting requires appropriate skills, resources and time. Consumers are best placed to advise on how to work with them. Research programmes are advised to work with well-networked consumers and provide them with information, resources and support to consult their peers to prioritise topics. This is best done through repeated and facilitated debate.
 
The authors found little evidence of the impact of consumers on the research agenda. This is because records are rarely kept and the contributions made by consumers are not identified in reports from panels/committees. 
 
Further research is required on:
  • the best training and support for consumers
  • how to tackle the barriers to involvement
  • comparing different methods of involvement
  • evaluation and identifying best practice
  • processes and outcomes of developing consensus with the involvement of consumers.

External link: The following links will take you to information on this entry on an external website. INVOLVE is not responsible for the content or the reliability of the external websites. Link to full report and summary

Related entry: none currently available

Categories: health
public health
social care
Identifying topics, prioritising and commissioning
nature and extent of public involvement in research
report

Date Entered: 2007/02/21

Date Edited: 2012/12/06

Additional Info: