Experience In Management Research Articles

Profile of Primary Care Managers in A Municipality in Northern Brazil and their Leadership Styles

Objective: Know the profile and leadership style of managers of Basic Health Units (BHU). Theoretical Framework: The 2017 National Primary Care Policy (NPCP) suggested the inclusion of managers in BHU to perform technical-managerial functions, based on the manager's assessment and according to the needs of the territory and coverage of Basic Care (BC). Method: Descriptive, cross-sectional and quantitative research, carried out in the municipality of Barcarena, in the state of Pará. The sample was 22 AB managers, carried out from October 2022 to May 2023. The data obtained from a questionnaire with sociodemographic and of experiences in Primary Health Care (PHC) and another on leadership style, the Multifactorial Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ). Results and Discussion: Most BC managers are female (86.4%), aged 20 to 39 (54.5%), married (59.1%), with higher education (90.9%) in Nursing (59 .1%) and 50.0% have a postgraduate degree at Lato sensu level and have a temporary employment relationship (59.1%). They had previous experience in management (59.1%) and had experience in PHC (72.7%). Regarding leadership styles, transformational leadership was more self-perceived (m=3.33) and was statistically significant (p=0.020), as an attribute, motivational inspiration (m=3.67). Research Implications: This study is one of the few works involving research focused on the leadership profile of BC managers. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by understanding the aspects associated with the leadership style of BC managers, and the relationship between leadership and the guidance suggested by the 2017 NPCP.

The Influence of Machine Learning on Enhancing Rational Decision-Making and Trust Levels in e-Government

The rapid growth in the use of AI techniques, mainly machine learning (ML), is revolutionizing different industries by significantly enhancing decision-making processes through data-driven insights. This study investigates the influence of using ML, particularly supervised and unsupervised learning, on rational decision-making (RDM) within Jordanian e-government, focusing on the mediating role of trust. By analyzing the experiences of middle-level management within e-government in Jordan, the findings underscore that ML positively impacts the rational decision-making process in e-government. It enables more efficient and effective data gathering, improves the accuracy of data analysis, enhances the speed and accuracy of evaluating decision alternatives, and improves the assessment of potential risks. Additionally, this study reveals that trust plays a critical role in determining the effectiveness of ML adoption for decision-making, acting as a pivotal mediator that can either facilitate or impede the integration of these technologies. This study provides empirical evidence of how trust not only enhances the utilization of ML but also amplifies its positive impact on governance. The findings highlight the necessity of cultivating trust to ensure the successful deployment of ML in public administration, thereby enabling a more effective and sustainable digital transformation. Despite certain limitations, the outcomes of this study offer substantial insights for researchers and government policymakers alike, contributing to the advancement of sustainable practices in the e-government domain.

Harnessing AI and Predictive Analytics: Transforming the Electric Vehicle Market in India

The electric vehicle (EV) market in India is undergoing a transformative phase, driven by growing environmental concerns, government incentives, and the rapid integration of advanced technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Predictive Analytics. These technologies are proving essential in optimizing various aspects of EV development, including battery management, predictive maintenance, and customer experience personalization. This research article investigates the influence of AI and Predictive Analytics on the Indian EV market, highlighting their roles in improving operational efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing safety and user satisfaction. Statistical data and case studies of leading Indian EV companies, such as Tata Motors, Ola Electric, and Ather Energy, illustrate the impact of these technologies on market growth and performance. Despite facing challenges like high initial costs and regulatory barriers, AI and Predictive Analytics are poised to play a pivotal role in the future expansion of the EV market in India. The findings suggest that with increased adoption and ongoing technological advancements, AI and Predictive Analytics will significantly contribute to the growth and sustainability of the EV sector in India. Keywords: Electric Vehicles (EVs), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Predictive Analytics, Battery Management Systems (BMS), Predictive Maintenance

국내 주요 대학의 핵심역량 혁신 사례 연구

Objectives Factors such as a decrease in the school-age population, the 4th Industrial Revolution, and the emphasis on social responsibility of universities have forced universities to establish their own core competencies to overcome the crisis. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the core competencies of major domestic universities and derive implications for the innovation of core competencies. Methods For this study, universities were selected from all regions of the country, including two from the metropolitan area, one from the Chungcheong area, two from the Gyeongsang area, and one from the Jeolla area. These universities were chosen based on their experience in core competency management. The study then conducted research by collecting academic papers, articles, surveys from each university's website, and conducting expert interviews. Results According to the survey results, major universities prioritize basic competencies required to demonstrate expertise, rather than job-specific skills, when it comes to talent development. Moreover, these universities focus on 2-6 core competencies related to talent. Finally, the measurement of these core competencies is done through a self-report questionnaire consisting of approximately 50 to 100 questions. Conclusions The findings of this study have important implications for other universities that aim to improve the competence of their students by establishing core competencies. Firstly, universities can look to other institutions for examples of effective core competency management and innovation, but should avoid excessive imitation. Secondly, in order to ensure the reliability and validity of the analysis of the university's core competency indicators, a balance between school and student perspectives is necessary. Thirdly, the results of core competency measurement should be used to develop student careers and strengthen their employment capabilities. Finally, strong leadership and management from the university's top management is required to bring about any necessary changes.

Digital Transformation: A Challenge for the Romanian Health System

This study analyzes the current status of the digitalization of the Romanian Health System (RHS). Data were collected from 135 active public and private health professionals using an online questionnaire with 102 items. The results of the analysis show that, if the qualification level and the experience of managers are high, seniority in management positions is an essential factor in the adoption of digital technologies, the digitalization of health services increases the efficiency and quality of medical and management services, and the success of the implementation of digital technologies is conditioned by the harmonization of a variety of factors because there are differences between the public and private sectors in terms of the economic efficiency determined by the adoption of digital technologies. There are also differences in the implementation of digital technologies between the national and worldwide levels, there are specific technologies that positively influence managerial performance, and the innovation process is conditioned by the management level. Because Romanian health service managers are updated with new technologies, they can ensure the implementation of digital technologies, considering that economic efficiency and managerial performance are directly related to the level of adoption and the type of technologies implemented.

ON THE IMPLEMENTATION BY THE PEOPLE’S COMMISSARIAT OF LIGHT INDUSTRY OF THE USSR OF THE RESOLUTIONS OF THE STATE DEFENCE COMMITTEE IN THE 2ND HALF OF 1941

This article examines the process of implementation by the People’s Commissariat of Light Industry of the USSR of the resolutions of the State Defence Committee on the production of clothing and equipment for the acting army. At the same time, the most difficult period for the Soviet state is covered – the 2nd half of 1941. The resolutions are examined in chronological order, as they were adopted, which allows us comprehending the progressive formation of the experience of state management of the economy of various industries and, above all, light industry. Moreover, they allow us getting an idea of the needs of the Red Army during that period, state measures aimed not only at replenishing military equipment lost in the first months of the battles, but also increasing production of uniforms, primarily winter ones. The article reflects the problems that arose during the implementation of the Committee’s resolutions, their overcoming, as well as the first actions to unite the efforts of the People’s Commissariats to solve priority tasks. It also provides information on the example of the Ukraine SSR about the loss of the entire light industry as a result of the occupation of virtually all the economic potential, which was to be replaced by enterprises in Central Russia and the eastern regions of the Soviet Union. The article presents the results of the work of the People’s Commissariat of Light Industry of the USSR for the 2nd half of 1941. The article is addressed to specialists in the field of the history of light industry, graduate students, undergraduates and students of higher educational institutions.

Compartmentalization strategy for coastal flooding mitigation with application to a Northern Adriatic site

A method of compartmentalization has been developed to address the safety concerns of urban areas from coastal flooding, especially in situations where reinforcing the first line of defence (dunes, levees, etc.) is challenging due to, for instance, environmental limitations. Various compartmentalization options can be considered and evaluated in order to govern the flooding. Each option should be modelled with a suited numerical tool to better define the alternatives, determine the minimum height of the elements that bound the compartments and verify their effectiveness for the preliminary design, e.g. for the environmental screening stage. The methodology is demonstrated for a real case study, the flooding of Lido di Volano that occurred on November 22, 2022, using a simplified shallow water equations model designed for GPU computing to simulate large-scale flooding scenarios. Two compartmentalization schemes have been identified, both of which involve raising the existing road level. The maximum water levels in different zones of the study area are assessed as a function of crest height. These schemes have proven to be effective in protecting the urban settlement from flooding. Overall, the proposed method of compartmentalization, supported by a real case study analysis, offers a systematic approach to enhance the safety and the resilience of urban coastal areas. This type of solution capitalises on the experience of the local managers and technicians and may represent a shared solution among the coastal governance actors.

Experience of an interdisciplinary management for pediatric Moyamoya disease: application of a novel Hemispheric Surgical Score.

The primary purpose of this study was to develop and implement a novel Hemispheric Surgical Score to guide the treatment of pediatric patients with Moyamoya disease (MMD). Additionally, we aimed to describe a comprehensive flowchart for the evaluation, treatment, and follow-up of these patients and to share our experience with the interdisciplinary management of a large pediatric cohort at a referral pediatric hospital. We conducted a retrospective observational study using medical records of patients diagnosed with MMD at the Pediatric Hospital "Prof. Dr. Juan P. Garrahan" in Buenos Aires, Argentina, from July 2013 to July 2023. From July 2016 onward, data were analyzed prospectively following the implementation of the Hemispheric Surgical Score and the flowchart. Evaluations included clinical, MRI, and angiographic criteria, and patients were managed by an interdisciplinary team. Demographic, clinical, and neuroimaging data were collected and analyzed. Eighty hemispheres from 40 patients were analyzed, with cerebral revascularization performed on 72 hemispheres from 37 patients. The Hemispheric Surgical Score and flowchart standardized treatment decisions, and reduced the need for invasive studies like angiographies for follow-up. The majority of patients (79.1%) had favorable outcomes, with complete disease progression arrest and no worsening of imaging nor clinical scores during a median follow-up of 35.8months. The Hemispheric Surgical Score and the comprehensive flowchart have improved the management of MMD in pediatric patients by standardizing treatment and reducing unnecessary invasive procedures. This interdisciplinary approach has led to better patient outcomes, highlighting the need for further validation in larger studies and comparisons of different revascularization techniques through randomized clinical trials.

Video-Guided Optimization of Stimulation Settings in Patients with Parkinson's Disease and Deep Brain Stimulation.

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson's disease (PD) often necessitates frequent clinic visits for stimulation program optimization, with limited experience in remote patient management. Due to the resource-intensive nature of these procedures, we investigated a way to simplify stimulation optimization for these patients that allows for the continuous monitoring of symptoms while also reducing patient burden and travel distances. To this end, we prospectively recruited ten patients treated with DBS for PD to evaluate the feasibility of telemedicinal optimization in a home-based setting. Patients recorded daily videos of a modified Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) III, which experienced DBS physicians located at the clinic assessed to provide instructions on adjusting stimulation settings using a handheld programmer with previously set programs as well as patient amplitude control. This study concluded with significant improvements in participants' motor status as measured by the UPDRS-III (p = 0.0313) compared to baseline values. These findings suggest that remote video-guided optimization of DBS settings is feasible and may enhance motor outcomes for patients.

Development and Preliminary Validation of a Central Venous Access Device-Associated Skin Impairment Classification Tool Using Modified Delphi and Clinimetric Methods.

An evidence and consensus-based instrument is needed to classify central venous access device-associated skin impairments. The aim of this study was to design and evaluate the central venous access device-associated skin impairment classification tool. A two-phase modified Delphi study. This two-phase study consisted of a literature review, followed by the development and validation of a classification instrument, by experts in the fields of central venous access devices and wound management (Phase 1). The instrument was tested (Phase 2) using 38 clinical photographs of a range of relevant skin impairments by the same expert panel. The expert panel consisted of registered nurses who were clinical researchers (n = 4) and clinical experts (n = 3) with an average of 24 years of nursing and research experience and 11 years of experience in wound management. Measures to assess preliminary content validity and inter-rater reliability were used. The instrument consists of five overarching aetiological classifications, including contact dermatitis, mechanical injury, infection, pressure injury and complex clinical presentation, with 14 associated subcategory diagnoses (e.g., allergic dermatitis, skin tear and local infection), with definitions and signs and symptoms. High agreement was achieved for preliminary scale content validity and item content validity (I-CVI = 1). Inter-rater reliability of aetiologies was high. The overall inter-rater reliability of individual definitions and signs and symptoms had excellent agreement. The development and preliminary validation of this classification tool provide a common language to guide the classification and assessment of central venous access device-associated skin impairment. The comprehensive and validated classification tool will promote accurate identification of central venous access device-associated skin impairment by establishing a common language for healthcare providers. The availability of this tool can reduce clinical uncertainty, instances of misdiagnosis and the potential for mismanagement. Consequently, it will play a pivotal role in guiding clinical decision-making, ultimately enhancing the quality of treatment and improving patient outcomes. The Guidance on Conducting and Reporting Delphi Studies (CREDES) was adhered to. No patient or public contribution.

Lifetime trauma, mental well-being, alcohol and help-seeking; the phenomenological experience of veterans residing in Northern Ireland

BackgroundVeteran residents in Northern Ireland (NI) are an under-researched population. Little is known about their experiences of trauma and mental health management. The overall mental well-being of veterans living in NI may be poorer than other veteran populations, due to the challenges presented by the unique landscape. Understanding their experiences is crucial for providing appropriate, targeted support.MethodSix male veterans, who had received a mental health diagnosis, living in NI and all aged > 40 years participated. Semi-structured interviews, using open-ended questions, were conducted over the telephone. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to explore their experiences.ResultsTwo experiential themes were identified each containing three experiential statements. Statements for ‘an extreme lack of’ included: lack of mental health literacy/awareness; lack of expectations of official support; lack of a sense of perceived appreciation. Statements for ‘an extreme abundance of’ included: exacerbated exposure to a range of extreme environments; high levels of ruled-based living; high levels of engaging with informal/local level support.ConclusionsSeveral experiential statements aligned with existing literature, including having poor mental health literacy and problem recognition, and heavily utilising social support versus formal help-seeking. Some novel findings included bouncing between extreme positive and negative environments which could be as detrimental to mental health as experiencing conflict trauma. Heavy alcohol use was just another rule soldiers followed. Positive help-seeking experiences failed to improve poor opinions of support organisations. Finally, poor self-perceptions connected to military status are pertinent in NI, which seems to fuel self-marginalisation and distrust. A combination of factors likely contributes to many veterans living in NI having poorer mental well-being. Novel findings would benefit from further exploration as understanding how NI veterans interpret their experiences is key to providing adequate healthcare.

Managing supply chain disruptions in the construction industry: an institutional approach

Purpose This study aimed to explore the institutional theory as a lens for investigating how construction firms adapt to supply chain disruptions. Specifically, the paper evaluates the interactions and interdependencies amongst various organizations, participants and institutions in the construction industry as a basis for a holistic, adaptive response strategy for managing supply chain disruptions. Design/methodology/approach Following the tenets of relativist philosophy and qualitative research methodology, this study explores the lived experiences of senior-level managers across major construction firms in New Zealand through in-depth semi-structured interviews, as a basis for understanding how their respective organizations adapt to supply chain disruptions. Findings The research findings suggest that aside from the formal rules that guide the conduct of construction firms as they adapt to supply chain disruptions, informal interactions that exist amongst various organizations and players in the construction industry could also enhance the development of innovative and practical response strategies to supply chain disruptions. Originality/value This study makes original empirical contributions to the supply chain management literature by providing insights into how construction firms demonstrate normative, coercive and mimetic isomorphic tendencies amidst the complexity of supply chain disruptions. Insights from this study could enhance the adaptive response of construction firms to supply chain disruptions while also improving the overall resilience of the built environment.

FP7.2 - Single centre experience of laparoscopic management of acute small bowel obstruction

Abstract Objectives The objective of this article is to present a single-centre experience of laparoscopic emergency surgery reporting outcomes by laparoscopic management of acute small bowel obstruction (ASBO). Methods A retrospective review of case notes to evaluate postoperative outcomes. 119 patients were included in this study of laparoscopic management of ASBO and data analysis was performed with SPSS software. Results There were 119 patients with primary aetiologies of adhesion bands (49.5%/59) and hernia (31.9%/38) were noted. Mortality and morbidity outcomes – 15 patients had minor complications, 37 had major complications and 3 patients had post-operative mortality. The average length of stay (LOS) was 10.86 days. The LOS Subgroup analysis showed that 13.8 days were average for adhesiolysis and 6.7 days for the hernia. Discussion On comparison with the published data global data suggest minor complications of 12.6 % (14% in this single-centre experience), major complications of 34 % (31 % in this single-centre experience) and mortality of 0.6% (2.5 % in this single-centre experience). Conclusion This study shows that this centre has comparable mortality and morbidity outcomes when compared to the global trend, but these outcomes.

WP1.11 - Total Extra Peritoneal (TEP) Inguinal hernia repair is safe and feasible for recurrent inguinal hernia post Total Extra Peritoneal repair "TEP on TEP is possible”

Abstract This abstract share our experience in surgical management of recurrent inguinal hernia post total extra peritoneal (TEP) repair by utilizing the same approach TEP. Methods Two patients with recurrent inguinal hernia post TEP were consulted for laparoscopic VS open approach, and both opted for the laparoscopic approach, understanding the higher risk of conversion. Result The first case of 62y male with recurrent left inguinal hernia after bilateral TEP. The second case of 69y male with recurrent left inguinal hernia post lap TEP repair. Standard three lower midline ports technique, no balloon spacer was used. The first and most important step was developing the plane above the previous mesh. 20 ml of 1 % xylocaine and 1/200000 was instilled in the extra peritoneal space to minimize oozing. Separating the previous mesh from the inferior epigastric artery and posterior wall of rectus muscle, down into bony lard marks and cord structures was performed using suction and sharp dissection with minimal diathermy. All landmarks were exposed in the three zones, before utilizing anatomical mesh. Both patients stayed overnight and operation time was 84 and 90 minute respectively. Three months follow up showed no recurrence or significant pain. Conclusion To our knowledge, this is first study describe the use of TEP on TEP. It suggests that TEP should not be excluded in patients with previous posterior mesh repair, emphasizing the importance of proper consultation. The abstract calls for further cases and studies to assess the efficacy and safety of this approach.

Analysis of problems and management of in vitro diagnostic reagent clinical trials in medical laboratory

Clinical trials are an important method for evaluating the safety and efficacy of in vitro diagnostic reagents, and are a key basis for product registration review and approval. In order to strengthen the management of clinical trials of in vitro diagnostic reagents, the National Medical Products Administration and relevant departments have formulated a series of regulations at the regulatory level, and require applicants and clinical trial institutions to establish a quality management system for clinical trials of in vitro diagnostic reagents. Medical laboratory is the main department and implementer of in vitro diagnostic reagent clinical trials in medical institutions. In recent years, with the rapid development of the in vitro diagnostic industry, the clinical trial projects of in vitro diagnostic reagents conducted by medical laboratory have been increasing day by day. However, there are currently few discussions on the clinical trial of in vitro diagnostic reagents from the perspective of researchers. Therefore, this article summarizes the characteristics of clinical trials of in vitro diagnostic reagents, analyzes the problems and difficulties in conducting clinical trials of in vitro diagnostic reagents in current medical laboratories, and introduces the laboratory's experience in management; to provide reference for medical testing laboratories that have not yet conducted or have already conducted clinical trials of in vitro diagnostic reagents, in order to improve the quality and efficiency of clinical trials.

Enhancing Privacy on Online Social Networs: A comparative study of encryption techniques

The ability to connect with people all over the world and share private information has made online social networks (OSNs) indispensable to contemporary communication. Because of the serious privacy and security concerns that come with their fast growth, protecting user data is of the utmost importance. In order to improve OSN privacy, this study examines several encryption techniques. It discusses symmetric encryption (ECC and RSA) and synthetic encryption (AES) as well as hybrid methods that combine the two types of encryption. Using examples from well-known sites such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter, the research assesses the efficacy and practicality of various strategies. Key management, performance implications, and user experience maintenance are some of the challenges that are addressed while adopting comprehensive encryption. To further improve privacy protection in OSNs, the paper delves into upcoming developments in encryption technology, such as decentralized encryption approaches and algorithms that are resistant to quantum computing. In order to better understand how to improve OSN security, this article will provide a thorough examination of encryption's function in protecting user privacy.

Cossacks in the Conditions of Frontier Modernization (on the example of the Far East in the late 19th – early 20th centuries)

Historically, the contacts between the Cossacks and the Chinese population were established and their particular strengthening occurred during the construction of the Chinese-Eastern Railway between 1897 and 1903. The imperial authorities devised a plan to establish the Sungurian Cossack army, which was to be augmented by the Cossacks dispatched to protect the ‘KVZhD’. These troops were to comprise the descendants of Albazin and the local population. In the context of the present circumstances, the Cossacks in the peripheral Ussuri Territory and Manchuria served as the frontiers of the system of relations with the local Chinese and Korean populations, as well as the modernizing transformation of the region. As the most mobile and passionate segment of the population, the Cossacks played a pivotal role in the socio-economic and cultural transformation of the region. Their extensive involvement in the agrarian economy and their diverse socio-class and ethno-confessional composition contributed to the diversification of the regional mosaic. During this historical period, the Cossacks served as the driving force of the Russian exploration of the Far Eastern space. Moreover, they facilitated the militarization of the newly developed territories. The format of the study permits presenting a set of relations risen along the Center–Far Eastern Cossacks axis. The objectives of this paper is to ascertain the nature of this relationship within the system and to study the dissemination of the experience of the Cossack self-government system to neighboring regions, including the process of Japanese colonization of the island of Hokkaido. The research findings indicate the efficacy of applying the Cossack administrative and economic management experience to the Far East and Manchuria, as well as in adjacent regions, such as Hokkaido. The article is intended for Cossack specialists and sinologists.

Patient recall of intensive care delirium: A qualitative investigation.

Many patients in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) experience delirium. Understanding the patient perspective of delirium is important to improve care and reduce suffering. The aim of our study was to investigate the subjective patient experience of delirium, delirium-related distress, and delirium management in ICU. Our study had a qualitative multicenter design applying individual interviews and thematic analysis. Participants were critically ill adult patients that were determined delirium positive according to validated delirium screening tools during ICU admission. The interviews were conducted after ICU discharge when patients were delirium-free as assessed by the "Rapid clinical test for delirium" (4AT) and able to participate in an interview. We interviewed 30 patients choosing the main themes deductively: Delirium experience; Delirium related distress; and Delirium management. Despite variations in recollection detail, ICU survivors consistently reported delirium-related distress during and after their ICU stay, manifesting as temporal confusion, misinterpretations, and a sense of distrust towards ICU staff. Delusions were characterized by a blend of factual and fictional elements. Impaired short-term memory hindered communication and intensified feelings of isolation, neglect, and loss of control. The ICU survivors in our study recalled delirium as an unpleasant and frightening experience, often leading to delirium-related distress during and after their ICU stay, indicating the necessity for enhanced assessment and treatment.

ICG mapping of postoperative lymphatic leakage in the groin: a video article and literature review.

Inguinofemoral lymphoceles are a common postoperative complication after inguinofemoral lymphadenectomy (LNE) and a challenge for patients as well as physicians. We report here our preliminary experience in the surgical management of a recurrent lymphocele using indocyanine green (ICG) detection, followed by robotic-assisted closure of the lymphatic leaks. The aim of this article is to illustrate the surgical steps of ICG-assisted detection of inguinal lymphatic leaks and their surgical treatment by means of robot-assisted suturing. Furthermore, the feasibility of the approach will be evaluated. A 59-year-old woman with locally advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the vulva and previous conventional bilateral inguinofemoral LNE presented with symptomatic therapy-resistant lymphoceles in the groin. After a lengthy and frustrating course of standard therapy, she was offered the off-label option surgical treatment with ICG detection and subsequent robot-assisted ligation of the leaks, using the Da Vinci robotic system™. Perioperative data, specific aspects of the surgical approach specifics, objective and subjective outcomes of the new approach. The procedure was performed as planned, with no intraoperative complications or device-related issues. The postoperative course was uneventful, and the patient developed no further lymphoceles. Visualisation of the leakage by ICG combined with minimally invasive robotic-assisted laparoscopy is a promising therapy option. The pictures and videos demonstrate our experience in regard of the safety, feasibility, and usefulness of this procedure. Further studies will be needed, to prove the absolute efficacy of the technique and express a general recommendation in regard of this approach for the treatment of inguinofemoral lymphoceles.

Lessons from the pandemic: An innovative scheme to support research in the North West Coast

In 2021, a Clinical Research Fellow (CRF) scheme was created to serve the North West Coast (NWC) region in line with the key health priorities set out by the Clinical Research Network. Five doctors in pre-specialist training were placed in NHS trust research departments across the NWC. The scheme aimed to provide early career research experience while also enhancing the provision of research across the region. The CRFs were involved in writing clinical trial grant applications and study protocols, with the scheme providing additional experience in leadership roles and time management. In addition, the CRF scheme has had a positive impact in adopted NHS trusts, which have seen their overall research capacity and capability improve, through increased flexibility and medical oversight. Research departments have benefited from increased financial income and improved national reputations. Overall, this real-world experience provided a vital ‘foot in the door’, which is essential for research-interested medics to advance in a future academic career. In the wider NWC region, the CRF scheme successfully delivered achievable and financially sustainable research. Innovative programmes such as this one should be seen as a viable option for research provision through the NHS, in the UK.