How does Research Fit into the NHS?
Research is a core service in the NHS. The NHS aspires to the highest standards of excellence and professionalism, achieving this in part through its "commitment to innovation and to the promotion, conduct and use of research to improve the current and future health and care of the population." NHS Constitution (2015)
Since the National Institute for Health and Care Research was established in 2006, it has become widely recognised for transforming the research landscape in the NHS; fostering productive relationships between universities and the NHS to speed translation of scientific breakthroughs into benefits for patients; enhancing the clinical workforce by reversing the decline in clinical academic numbers; and as an exemplar in public and patient involvement.
Clinical research also has considerable economic benefits. An important part of the NIHR CRN’s role is to make the NHS an attractive place for the life sciences industry (eg. pharmaceutical companies) to carry out its research. The international investment and skilled jobs that this attracts contributes to the economic growth of the country. Clinical research activity supported by the NIHR Clinical Research Network in 2018-19 generated £2.7 billion of gross value added and created nearly 40,400 jobs.
Learn more about how the NIHR makes a difference to research
See how the NIHR is harnessing the power of research and unlocking the answers to health and care challenges.
