District teams honoured for clinical trial engagement initiatives.
 

Two research teams have been recognised for their initiatives to enhance engagement with consumers who are key contributors to clinical trials driving translational research in Sydney Local Health District. 

There are more than 800 active clinical trials under way across more than 80 departments in the District. They play a vital role in providing patients with access to emerging and innovative care, and improving their health outcomes.   

To mark International Clinical Trials Day, the District held a competition to showcase Clinical Trial Units that are demonstrating leadership in consumer engagement and trial inclusivity.   

A team from the Institute for Musculoskeletal Health – a partnership between the District and the University of Sydney – won the competition for their work to co-design musculoskeletal clinical trial programs with consumers.   

“Our research has become so much richer and more meaningful by embedding consumers in our projects from the earliest point,” said physiotherapist Charlotte McLennan, who has played a role in coordinating consumer engagement for the Institute. 

“With our initial research questions, we make sure we’re answering a question that consumers would like us to solve. 

“Our consumers then guide us in the practical ways that we can aim to answer that question and share their insights about any potential challenges we may face in trying to conduct the research. It makes the outcomes more meaningful and impactful.”
 

RPA’s Department of Anaesthetics Research team was highly commended for their work in setting up an anaesthetic and pain consumer representative group.   

“There are eight consumers in the group who we meet face-to-face each quarter,” said Clinical Nurse Consultant (CNC) Kaitlin Kramer, who has led consumer engagement alongside fellow CNC Belinda Anderson and Dr Charlotte Johnstone.

“They have been so open, interested and excited to be part of research.” 

So far, the group’s contributions include providing input about the design and feasibility of the department’s clinical trials as well as feedback about patient-facing materials. 

“Reviewing patient-facing materials with consumers has improved the clarity, tone and accessibility of study information. It’s strengthened our     ability to communicate complex clinical research concepts in plain language,” Kaitlin said.          

One of the group’s members, Zoe Fernance, said her experience has been rewarding, impactful and educational. 

“It’s a genuine, respectful partnership with the research clinicians, a safe and supportive environment to collaborate and contribute experiences, question and advocate for patients, families and carers,” she said. 

The District’s Executive Director of Research, Professor Paul Haber, said embedding consumer engagement in clinical trials was one of the District’s core priorities. 

“We want to make sure our research puts patients first and genuinely reflects what the community needs,” Professor Haber said.

“Both teams were recognised because they involved consumers in a real and meaningful way in their research. Their practical approach can help guide good practice across the District.”

The District is also continuing its work to strengthen access to clinical trials for priority populations including Aboriginal communities, culturally and linguistically diverse communities and LGBTIQ+ communities.