Developing a clinical research network: the Northern Region Endoscopy Group experience

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Research
• Clinical Trials
• Health Services Research

Background:

• National Health Service research relies on networks for clinical trial recruitment.
• Existing networks, like the National Institute for Health Research's Comprehensive Research Network, do not adequately support research development.
• A need exists for collaborative models that foster research development alongside recruitment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the Northern Region Endoscopy Group (NREG) as a successful model for collaborative biomedical research.
• To highlight the NREG's contribution to research development and clinical trials.
• To demonstrate the impact of a specialized collaborative network in healthcare.

Main Methods:

• Establishment of the Northern Region Endoscopy Group (NREG) in 2007.
• Formation of a collaborative research network encompassing 17 endoscopy units.
• Focus on supporting research development and facilitating participation in UK trials.

Main Results:

• The NREG has become a major contributor to UK clinical trials.
• The network has published over 20 papers and 60 abstracts.
• The NREG has secured research grants totaling more than £1.5 million.

Conclusions:

• Collaborative working within specialized networks significantly contributes to biomedical research.
• The NREG model exemplifies successful integration of research development and clinical trial activity.
• Specialized collaborative networks can enhance research output and funding acquisition in healthcare.