Allied Health Insights Vol.2, No.6: Patient & Public Involvement (PPI) In Health Research
Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) is a fundamental approach in health research that involves actively engaging with patients and the public in designing, conducting, and translating research—it is done ‘with’ or ‘by’ the public, rather than on its behalf.
PPI can ensure research is more ethical and accessible, a pipeline to lived experience that can make research more relevant—it ensures that research addresses the things that matter to people.
Public involvement in research can help researchers gain a broader understanding of their chosen research field. It can also empower people with lived experience by increasing awareness about their condition, reducing isolation and boosting their confidence to share their unique knowledge. This brings diverse insights into the process, and fosters trust, transparency, and a sense of justice by giving a voice to those ultimately benefiting from the research.
It can result in better research studies by preventing poor research questions and focusing on areas that participants consider to be relevant or important.
Are there any misconceptions or myths around Patient and Public Involvement in health research?
Yes, according to our guest contributor for this week. Christine Smith is a Patient & Public Involvement in Research consultant who works with researchers in health and social care services in the UK. She has been working in PPI for the last twelve years, and she shares with us a number of myths about PPI she was unaware of when commencing in this field.
