Evaluating a Virtual Approach to Health Research Commissioning
Author Information
Author(s): Christine A McCourt, Philip A Morgan, Penny Youll
Primary Institution: Thames Valley University
Hypothesis
Can a virtual approach enhance the accessibility, transparency, and effectiveness of health research commissioning?
Conclusion
The study suggests that while a virtual approach has potential benefits for health research commissioning, further development is needed to fully realize these advantages.
Supporting Evidence
- The virtual process allowed for timely and transparent decision-making.
- Participants reported that the virtual approach provided greater physical access and flexibility.
- Challenges included reduced social cues and the need for new ways to ensure effective dialogue.
Takeaway
This study looked at how using computers for health research meetings can help more people join in and make decisions, but it also found some challenges.
Methodology
A naturalistic-experimental approach combined with action research principles, involving qualitative data collection through interviews, observations, and questionnaires.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the limited diversity of participants and the technical nature of the recruitment materials.
Limitations
The study was limited by the early closure of the program and the inability to observe all phases of the commissioning process across different groups.
Participant Demographics
Participants included health service consumers, practitioners, and policy members, with varying levels of experience in research commissioning.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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