Patient engagement is key to ensuring that research adequately addresses the needs and values of the community.
In Patient-Centered Research, “Stakeholders” are individuals, organizations, or communities that have a direct interest in the process and outcomes of a study.
Patients are considered equal stakeholders in research teams alongside researchers, doctors, and others who will be impacted by the findings. Thus, the inclusion of patients with diverse backgrounds and experiences and the amplification of underserved voices will ensure that research is equitable and representative.
Watch this short video to learn more about how the patient experience can inform research.
REACHnet offers opportunities for patients and their families to collaborate with healthcare professionals and research through the Health in Our Hands stakeholder group. Health in Our Hands (HiOH) coordinates opportunities for patient partners to attend research presentations and get involved with current REACHnet projects. Additionally, HiOH offers training sessions and workshops to explore fundamental aspects of patient-centered research, such as data analysis, health equity, and more.
For more information and to learn how to join the Health in Our Hands Community, click “Learn More.”
Since 2014, REACHnet has centered patient engagement across various studies. Some projects that have included patients like you as partners are:
Louisiana Experiment to Address Diabetes: Zero-Dollar Copayment (LEAD-ZDC): This study examines if lowering out of pocket costs for select medications for patients with diabetes impacts their medication adherence and health outcomes. Learn more about this study here.
Aspirin Dosing: A Patient-centric Trial Assessing Benefits and Long-Term Effectiveness (ADAPTABLE): The purpose of ADAPTABLE was to find the best dose of aspirin, 81 mg or 325 mg, for people with known or existing heart disease to prevent death or another heart attack or stroke. You can learn more about the study findings here You can hear from a patient partner about ADAPTABLE here.