Harness the strength of the NHS for medical research
The NHS is one of the largest single healthcare systems in the world. It is a unique resource for research and innovation which contributes to the UK’s leadership in medical and health research.
The NHS is committed to research in its constitution.
'The NHS aspires to the highest standards of excellence and professionalism…through its commitment to innovation and to the promotion and conduct of research to improve the current and future health and care of the population.'
More info on the NHS Constitution for England»
The National Institute of Health Research (NIHR), established in 2006, is an NHS initiative with a ring-fenced budget for health research.
NIHR sets out to establish the NHS as an internationally recognised centre of research excellence through supporting outstanding individuals. Its work is co-ordinated, alongside that of the MRC, by OSCHR.
More info about NIHR»
More info about OSCHR»
Many charities are now actively involved in funding and supporting clinical trials and studies as part of the NIHR portfolio. Charities play an important role in recruiting patients to clinical trials of medicines and treatments for the future.
Asthma UK helps put patients and researchers in touch.
More info»
The Cooksey review examining the future of health research in the UK identified the importance of creating incentives to encourage translation of research into innovative health interventions.
New NHS initiatives, such as the recently introduced Health Innovation Challenge Fund, create a strong pull. Charities are keen to receive applications to support this type of research.
More info on the Cooksey review»
More info on the Health Innovation Challenge Fund»
Each NHS patient has a patient record noting information personal to them and their health.
The wealth of information retained by the NHS in patients' records provides an unrivalled resource for medical research.
However developing a clear framework protecting both patients and researchers and enabling the safe use of this information is vital.
AMRC policy statement and FAQ on patient data»
Encourage engagement, openness and transparency»
Drive innovation of new treatments to help patients»