Research priorities in pleural disease: study protocol for a joint patient-provider Delphi consensus statement

Area of Science:

• Pulmonology
• Clinical Research
• Patient Advocacy

Background:

• Global variations exist in pleural medicine research priorities and clinical practices.
• Patient perspectives are often underrepresented in setting the research agenda.
• The International Multicentre Pleural Research Collaborative (IMPACT) aims to bridge this gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a consensus document guiding future pleural disease research.
• To ensure research is scientifically valid, clinically meaningful, and patient-centered.
• To establish globally relevant research priorities in pleural medicine.

Main Methods:

• A Delphi method survey of pleural disease experts will rank research questions.
• Patient input will be gathered through a subsequent Delphi method survey.
• A consensus meeting with experts and patients will finalize the prioritized research list.

Main Results:

• The study will yield a prioritized list of research questions for pleural disease.
• The consensus document will reflect both expert and patient perspectives.
• The findings will inform the direction of future pleural medicine research.

Conclusions:

• Integrating patient voices into research prioritization is essential for impactful pleural medicine.
• This collaborative approach ensures research addresses the most pressing and relevant issues in pleural disease.
• The study promotes patient-centered, globally applicable research in the field.