Public and Patient Involvement

Public and Patient Involvement (PPI) in research refers to the active partnership between researchers and members of the public and patients, in the research process. When embedding PPI practices within clinical trials, the public and patients collaborate with researchers to shape, influence, and contribute to various stages of the research, from planning and design to implementation, dissemination, and evaluation.

PPI helps ensure that research addresses the real needs and concerns of those it aims to benefit. By incorporating the lived experiences and insights of patients and the public, PPI enhances the relevance, quality, and impact of research, making it more applicable to real-world contexts. This approach promotes inclusivity, transparency, and mutual respect in research and is particularly valuable in health and social care settings, where the outcomes directly impact individuals and communities.

Involvement in research means, for example, when patients and members of the public work in partnership with a research team to:

• decide what issue or question a research study/ clinical trial will focus on
• provide early input into the design of research studies
• guide the research by becoming a member of a study governance committee
• work with researchers to develop clear, understandable, patient information material
• Share the results of the research with the public and patients, policy maker and the research and clinical community.

The PPI Ignite Network at the University of Galway collaborates with researchers, patients, and the public to ensure that the patient voice plays a central role in shaping and influencing health and social care research. This approach enhances the quality, relevance, and impact of the research we conduct.

We are proud to partner with the Institute for Clinical Trials to advance public and patient involvement (PPI), engagement, and capacity-building efforts. Together, we are fostering an environment where research is informed and led by patients, driving meaningful change in healthcare.