Consumer perspectives in surgical research and audit.

Area of Science:

• Healthcare research methodology
• Patient engagement in surgery
• Health information dissemination

Background:

• The Division of Research, Audit and Academic Surgery has engaged consumers since 1998.
• Understanding consumer perspectives is crucial for effective surgical research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore consumer experiences and motivations in contributing to surgical research.
• To understand the evolving role of consumers in healthcare research and information provision.

Main Methods:

• Nine consumers who collaborated with the Division in the last five years participated.
• Data collection involved written surveys and semi-structured phone interviews.

Main Results:

• Consumers were motivated by concerns about surgical uncertainties and the need for clear patient information.
• A consumer presence is essential in surgical research, requiring careful content and wording of information.
• Consumers are increasingly recognized as partners in the doctor-patient relationship.

Conclusions:

• Consumer perspectives in surgical research and audit are unique and experience-informed.
• Findings are relevant for health technology assessment agencies aiming to integrate consumer involvement in research processes.