Chapter 29 - Clinical Research in the Public Eye

Abstract

This chapter surveys the public and political context of clinical research. Understanding how demands for transparency and public accountability in the scientific and political processes are linked is essential if the research community is to flourish. Public opinion surveys consistently reveal that health is among Americans' top domestic issues. Without continued public support, a healthy policy environment, and strong federal funding for clinical and indeed all forms of research, this revolutionary vision is not a reality. It also explains that an earlier shift away from the traditional physician–patient relationship affected clinical research directly and dramatically. Along with this, the chapter briefly explains public opinion about research, according to recent surveys. America, the nation's largest not-for-profit public education and advocacy alliance, is working to make research to improve health a higher national priority. The public continues to be supportive of clinical research but is not terribly well informed nor personally involved. The research community has the opportunity every day to shape this multifaceted context. Individual researchers have the power to help research become an even more powerful force for the health of their nation and the world.