NHS Long Term Plan aims to involve one million people in clinical research by 2023/24. This is part of the government’s strategy to improve care, treatment and NHS services in England.
Most of the participants were recruited into children’s research studies (81,892), studies delivered in primary care settings (78,533), reproductive health and childbirth research (74,128).
Other studies included cancer research (67,652), and mental health research (65,645).
NIHR Clinical Research Network chief executive Dr Jonathan Sheffield said: “People who take part in studies can gain access to cutting edge, innovative new treatments.
“While NHS trusts and health and social care patients also benefit significantly, with evidence and innovations identified through research pivotal to the development of new types of care and treatment – ultimately leading to the prevention of ill health, earlier diagnosis, faster recovery and better outcomes.”
Based on the latest figures released by NIHR, it was found that patients now have more opportunity to take part in clinical trials.
Over the year, a total number of 2,194 studies have been added to the NIHR’s portfolio, thereby bringing the total number of ongoing studies across England to 6,106.
The latest NIHR survey completed by more than 8,500 participants across England found that 90% of people reported a positive experience of participating in clinical studies.
At present, 740 new studies sponsored by the life sciences industry are registered on the NIHR Clinical Research Network portfolio in 2018/19.
With this, the total number of studies being delivered in partnership with commercial organisations reached 1,523.
