Research ethics
All studies carried out by the Trust are examined and approved by a research ethics committee
If you are treated at one of our hospitals, you may be invited to take part in some research. It is entirely up to you whether or not you wish to get involved. If you decide not to participate, you will still be treated using the best currently available methods.
Your involvement and the time that each study takes will vary depending upon what is being investigated and what tests or measurements are needed. The researcher will give you further information about the estimated length of the proposed study and what to expect if you agree to take part. To get a feel for what might be involved, you can watch a video about one of our research centres, the Sir John McMichael centre.
What are the risks?
In the study of new treatments and investigations, the researchers may be aware of some side-effects, but there is also the possibility of unknown side-effects. It is important to bear in mind that all treatments and investigations have some degree of side-effects.
We will monitor your health during the study and ask you to tell us about any illnesses or changes in your body that you notice.
What about confidentiality?
If you take part in a study, people other than your doctors will need access to your medical records. Everyone who sees your records has to follow the same confidentiality guidelines as all other hospital staff. Sometimes the research is carried out at many hospitals and we need to share the information about how the study is progressing. If we do send out information to other researchers, your personal details will be replaced by an identification number to protect your confidentiality.
Who does the research?
This will depend on the study, but it may be a combination of doctors, nurses, midwives and healthcare professionals. Research can also be done by students. Please feel free to ask who is doing the research and who is funding the research, if this might affect your decision to take part.
Who approves the study?
All studies carried out at our Trust are examined and approved by a research ethics committee. They look at everything that will take place in the study and how it will be done, with a focus on the interests of patients.
Will I be able to find out the results of the research?
The researcher will be able to tell you when the research is completed and when the results are available.
What if I have concerns about the research?
If you have any questions or concerns about the research, you should contact one of the following:
• The researcher
• The patient advice and liaison service (PALS) at the hospital
Will I have to decide straight away if I want to take part?
No. It is better to take the time to discuss the benefits and the risks with other healthcare professionals (such as your GP) or with relatives or friends before you decide. The researchers will also be available to discuss the study further.
