[Active participation of medical assistants in primary care research in Germany]

Since 2020, the Federal Ministry of Education and Research has been funding the establishment of six research practice networks in primary care in Germany through the Initiative DESAM-ForNet. The aim is to create a practice-based and efficient research infrastructure. The involvement of medical assistants (MAs) in these networks is of central importance, as they are able to contribute valuable perspectives and knowledge through their daily practice work and are often involved in studies.

Three tabular instruments were developed to record MA participation. In each research practice network, the tables were used to document the involvement of MAs in the network structure, their qualifications and their role in research projects. The information from each network was discussed and summarized in terms of similarities and differences.

Reports were provided from five practice-based research networks where MAs are actively involved in various participation formats such as committees, round tables, and advisory boards. MAs are involved at different quality levels in the development of the networks and the implementation of studies. In addition, the practice-based research network offers specific qualifications to train MAs for research work. MAs receive financial incentives and/or certificates for their participation.

The results show that MAs play an important role in research practice networks, especially in a co-determining function. Overall, MA participation through research practice networks is established, but not yet as self-evident as patient participation. In order to further strengthen participation of MAs, future measures should promote their involvement in decision-making processes and enable them to obtain additional qualifications. The role of MAs in research should be further expanded at all quality levels of involvement.

The active involvement of MAs in the development and operation of research practice networks is essential to ensure the practical relevance of research projects. Greater participation could further improve the quality of research and should therefore be specifically promoted.