Progress made in NHS health research, says report

A report published by the National Institute of Health Research (NIHR) has outlined the key areas of progress it has made in its research practices.

It highlights in particular that NIHR research networks have been set up to support clinical trials throughout England and promote public involvement in health research.

Such networks have increased the numbers taking part in clinical trials and improved their organisation, the report highlights.

The study also notes the work undertaken in cancer research, indicating that the UK has the highest national per capita rate of cancer trial participation in the world.

In addition, it reveals that the NIHR is commissioning more research through expanded programmes and new world class research, with 2006-7 seeing 22 new projects funded using 15 million pounds through the Health Technology Assessment Programme.

Dawn Primarolo, public health minister, stated that the government was committed to making the NHS a centre of excellence for health research.

She announced: “Public funding for health research will rise to 1.7 billion pounds? this level of funding will support an unprecedented growth in the number of NHS clinical trials in England.”

NIHR is now established as a part of the government’s strategy Best Research for Best Health.