Collaborating with nonphysician professionals in practice-based research. Dizziness Research Group

Although much has been written about the importance of collaboration among physicians in practice-based research, the relationship between the clinical investigator and nonphysician professionals in this setting has received less attention. Nurses, physician assistants, and other office support staff can provide valuable insights pertinent to research design and project implementation. Because nonphysician professionals frequently play a large part in implementing a research project, how well the investigator collaborates with them often determines the success or failure of the project. We suggest the following guidelines: 1. Consider the research interests of the nonphysician collaborators. 2. Adapt the project to office routine. 3. Limit the demands on staff. 4. Use detailed protocols. 5. Orient all collaborators. 6. Be available and visible. 7. Provide feedback and reward to all collaborators.