Research

 

About our research work

We are proud to be actively involved in medical research, helping to improve healthcare for our patients and the wider community. We take part in a wide range of research studies, including those focused on conditions such as obesity, diabetes and dementia.

We work closely with trusted organisations such as the NHS and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) helping to deliver both NHS led and independent research.

All of our studies are carried out safely and carefully by trained professionals who follow strict guidelines to protect patients and ensure high quality results.

By taking part in research we are helping to shape better treatments and care for our future.

Get involved.

 

Taking part in research

At Ruby Country Medical Group, we are involved in medical research to help improve healthcare for everyone. From time to time we may invite you to take part in a study.

Taking part is completely your choice. You do not have to take part if you don’t want to and your decision will not affect your care in any way. If you do agree, you can change your mind at any time without giving a reason.

All research carried out at our practice is carefully checked and approved to make sure it is safe and suitable.

If you are invited to join a study we will give you clear information about what it involves. You will have the chance to ask questions before deciding. Your personal information will always be kept safe and handled in line with UK data protection laws.

You might hear about research opportunities in a few different ways:

  • We may text you a message or send you a letter inviting you to take part
  • Your doctor or nurse mentioning it during an appointment
  • A member of the research team speaking to you in the waiting room (they are approved by the practice)

What you are asked to do will depend on the study.  You will receive full details and support from the research team, who will be happy to answer any questions.

 

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to take part in research?

No. Taking part in research is completely voluntary.  It is always your choice and you are free to say no without giving a reason. No one will pressure you to take part. If you do not want to be contacted about research studies that we may run at the practice in the future please let us know. If you change your mind at a later date, you can still opt back in at any time.

Will saying no affect my care?

Not at all.  Your care and your relationship with our doctors and nurses will remain exactly the same whatever you decide.

How will I know what the study involves?

We will always give you clear information about the study. This is usually in a Patient Information Sheet. If you are interested the study team will talk things through with you and answer any questions before you decide.

Will my information be kept private?

Yes. Your personal details and medical records are kept confidential. No one outside the practice will have access to your information without your permission. If you decide to take part you will be asked to sign a consent form explaining what information (if any) may be used.

Will I be asked to take part in lots of studies?

No. Each study has specific requirements so only a small number of patients are usually suitable for each one. You are unlikely to be approached frequently. 

 

Current research studies available to our patients

Select a project link for a more information.

Domino

Do you provide care to people with dementia and support them to take their osteoporosis medications?  We want to hear your thoughts about bone health and osteoporosis medicines for people with dementia.

Visit the Domino website

Cleft

A research programme taking place in the UK involving young adults who were born with a cleft.

Visit the Cleft website

Complex Emotions

Opportunity to join a 3 year study which aims to learn more about what influences these emotions and improve future support and treatments.

Exist

Help needed to understand the impact of mouth and teeth on your self image, relationships and life opportunities.

ICCD Improving Clinical Care in Diabetes

The study aims to find out why diabetes and its associated complications progress quickly in some patients and much slower in others.

Visit the Diabetes Genes website

More Kare

Do you want to stop drinking or reduce your alcohol intake?  This study involves having three infusions of the study drug alongside psychological support.

Visit the More Kare website

My Melanoma

My Melanoma is a partnership between people who have been affected by melanoma.

Visit the My Melanoma website

Starfish

Looking at the best treatment for sudden hearing loss.

Visit YouTube for further information 

ELSA

Find out if your child is at risk of type 1 diabetes in the future through the ELSA study.