Media Release
Date: 20 May 2016
RUH highlights the Trust's research studies as part of International Clinical Trials Day
The Research and Development team at the Royal United Hospital (RUH) are planning a range of activities for today (Friday, 20 May) to mark 'International Clinical Trials Day.'
The Trust has an excellent reputation for research and clinical trials play a vital role in gathering evidence to improve treatment and care for patients in the NHS.
Dr. Kelly Spencer, Research Manager, RUH says:
"We welcome this opportunity to talk about the research taking place at the RUH. We are currently running over 300 research studies, ranging from patients completing questionnaires to trialing cutting-edge medical treatments for diseases such as cancer, diabetes and stroke."
"Research that we take part in at RUH often leads to advances in medical science both nationally and internationally. A recent example is a study undertaken with RUH diabetes patients, investigating a new way of monitoring blood sugar that doesn't require patients to undertake daily finger prick blood tests. The device, which was trialed here in Bath, may be of benefit to numerous diabetes patients, particularly children."
During International Clinical Trials Day, research staff will be talking to patients, visitors and staff reminding them its 'ok to ask' about research. Dr Spencer explains:
"We encourage patients to ask about research at any time, what is being done for their particular condition and if they can take part. It often helps patients understand more about the treatment they are currently receiving." "We are very grateful to those who take part in our research - many treatments that are used every day would not be available if it wasn't for people taking part in research in the past."
Interactive displays showcasing the RUH's research studies will be in the Atrium; the main hospital entrance, oncology outpatients and the maternity department throughout the day.
ENDS
Note to editors:
For more information about our clinical activities visit: www.ruh.nhs.uk and for national information visit www.nihr.ac.uk and click on the 'ok to ask' logo.
- International Clinical Trials Day is celebrated around the world on or near the 20 May each year, to commemorate the day that James Lind started his famous trial on the deadly disease scurvy.
- For more information about our research activities visit: www.ruh.nhs.uk and for national information visit www.nihr.ac.uk and click on the 'OK to ask' logo.
- Ok to ask campaign – aims to encourage more patients or carers to ask about research opportunities that could be available to them or their loved ones, if they have a medical condition they are receiving treatment for. That essentially it is "OK to ask" about research opportunities. Whilst the campaign is primarily aimed at encouraging more patients to ask about research opportunities, it's also about reminding all healthcare professionals from consultants and GP's to nurses and midwives, whether research-active or not, to be research-aware.