Evidence Library

Methods: Members of the review panels (over 700 people in total) were sent a questionnaire before and after the panel meetings where proposals were reviewed and scored. The survey asked people about their attitudes, perceptions and beliefs about scientists and consumers working together to review research proposals.

 

Findings/recommendations: Both the scientists and consumers were initially concerned about whether consumers would have the necessary skills and training to take part in a scientific review. Some scientists also thought that consumers might be over-emotional and could derail the meeting. The consumers were also concerned that their views would not be taken seriously by the scientists, but were less concerned about this after the meeting. The scientists viewed the consumers as hard-working, dedicated and effective advocates after the meeting and said they were in favour of involving carefully chosen lay panel members. The scientists were initially worried that involving consumers would change the voting and scoring on proposals, but this did not happen. They were glad of the opportunity to learn about the concerns of breast cancer survivors first hand. Overall, the panel meeting appeared to have supported a spirit of teamwork and co-operation.