Engagement of culturally diverse communities in primary care research

The underrepresentation of ethnic minorities and low-income groups in primary care (PC) research hinders the development of effective treatments for diverse populations.

To develop a framework that general practice staff and researchers can use to improve the participation of underserved groups in PC research.

This study was undertaken across 10 GP practices in South London serving 150 658 patients. Practices are distributed across ethnically diverse and highly deprived communities. A mixed-methods approach was utilised. Retrospective data were collected on patient participation in research studies across the practices between July 2022 and July 2023. Professional and patient focus groups, and a patient questionnaire, were undertaken to understand awareness and knowledge of, enablers for, and barriers to research participation.

Over the 12-month period, 627 patients participated in PC research studies across the 10 practices. Black African and Black Caribbean patients accounted for 26% of the practices' patient population but were significantly underrepresented in research, comprising only 11% of participants. Patients of Asian backgrounds accounted for 11% of the practices' population but made up 20% of research participants. Lack of awareness of research participation opportunities, fear of side effects, language barriers, and mistrust of researchers were some of the barriers to participation. Participants highlighted that trust in their GP, education, and transparency of research processes were key to building long-term engagement.

This study provides insights into poor recruitment of specific ethnic minorities into primary care studies. The authors identified adaptations to research engagement activities, which are required to ensure that participation is improved.