Establishing a multicentre clinical research network: lessons learned.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Health Services Research
• Palliative Care

Background:

• Research networks are vital in healthcare for connecting dispersed researchers and sharing resources.
• A Canadian multicentre network focused on difficult cancer pain was established in 2004 to boost palliative care research.
• The network received 5 years of funding to support its research activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify key components contributing to the success of clinical cancer research networks.
• To reflect on factors enabling the achievement of network goals in a multicentre setting.

Main Methods:

• An external evaluation panel conducted a mid-grant review of the network.
• An internal survey assessed member perceptions of network effectiveness.
• Literature review and evaluation feedback informed the identification of success factors.

Main Results:

• Successful networks require a shared vision, formal governance, and infrastructure support.
• Effective communication, accountability, and succession planning are critical.
• Engaging members, regular goal review, and balancing structure with creativity are essential.

Conclusions:

• Several specific factors were identified as highly relevant to promoting success in clinical cancer research networks.
• Reflecting on these factors can foster further discussion on designing and operating effective research networks.
• The findings offer insights for establishing and managing multi-year, multicentre research collaborations.