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Evolving Roles for Patients as Partners in a National Kidney Health Research Network: A Qualitative Study
Mark Melika-Abusefien1, Nicolas Fernandez2, Keila Turino Miranda3
1Department of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Patient partners in kidney health research are taking on more active and influential roles, moving beyond traditional engagement to advocacy and mentorship. This evolution reflects a growing trend towards equitable and collaborative research partnerships.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Patient Engagement in Research
- Chronic Kidney Disease Research
Background:
- Patient partnerships are integral to the Can-SOLVE CKD Network's operations.
- Understanding the evolution of patient partner roles and engagement structures is crucial for effective research networks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the evolution of patient partner roles within the Can-SOLVE CKD Network.
- To analyze the development of structures influencing patient engagement over time.
Main Methods:
- Secondary analysis of qualitative data from focus groups, interviews, and workshops.
- Inductive thematic analysis of deidentified transcripts and virtual 'sticky notes' from 97 participants.
- Involved patient partners, researchers, clinicians, and network operational staff.
Main Results:
- Identified a shift from traditional to emerging patient partner roles, including advocacy, outreach, and mentorship.
- Observed increasing patient partner self-determination in defining their roles based on identified needs.
- Noted the formalization of structures to support meaningful patient contributions and integrate diverse perspectives.
Conclusions:
- The evolving roles and supports for patient partners signify a move towards more collaborative and equitable research.
- Findings offer insights for large-scale research teams aiming to foster sustained and authentic patient engagement.
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