The EVIDEM programme: a test for primary care research in London?

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Primary Care Research
• Research and Development Management

Background:

• The National Health Service (NHS) Research and Development (R&D) focus is increasingly on the 'Development' aspect.
• Primary care possesses inherent collaborative traditions advantageous for R&D.
• Traditional academic settings may be less suited to capitalize on this R&D shift.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the potential of primary care to lead in the evolving landscape of NHS R&D.
• To examine the feasibility of multidisciplinary collaboration within competitive institutional environments.
• To identify challenges and opportunities for R&D in complex urban health systems.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative analysis of the R&D landscape in primary care.
• Case study approach examining collaborative models.
• Discussion of policy and governance implications for R&D.

Main Results:

• Primary care is strategically positioned to leverage the shift towards the 'D' in R&D.
• Multidisciplinary collaboration is achievable and potentially enhanced through primary care's structure.
• Fragmented health services and risk-averse research governance pose significant challenges to R&D.

Conclusions:

• Primary care offers a unique platform for advancing applied research and development.
• Overcoming bureaucratic hurdles in research governance is crucial for successful R&D.
• The collaborative nature of primary care can foster innovation in health and social services.