Building an International Network for Primary Care Research on Acute Cough
Author Information
Author(s): Jacqueline Nuttall, Kerenza Hood, Theo JM Verheij, Paul Little, Curt Brugman, Robert Veen, Herman Goossens, Christopher C Butler
Primary Institution: South East Wales Trials Unit, Cardiff University
Hypothesis
Can challenges in multi-country primary care research be effectively addressed through innovative solutions?
Conclusion
Strong communication and commitment among local researchers can help overcome challenges in multi-country primary care research.
Supporting Evidence
- Over 3,400 patients were recruited overall, with a 99% return rate for case report forms.
- Strong leadership and communication were key to maintaining enthusiasm among participating networks.
- Challenges included selecting and maintaining primary care networks and designing culturally appropriate data collection tools.
Takeaway
This study shows that working together across countries can help doctors learn more about treating coughs, even if there are some challenges.
Methodology
A prospective observational study involving 14 Primary Care Networks across 13 European countries, where GPs recruited patients with acute cough.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to over-representation of research-interested healthcare professionals.
Limitations
The study faced challenges related to language, cultural differences, and varying ethical approval processes across countries.
Participant Demographics
Clinicians from 14 primary care research networks in 13 European countries.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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