The Sheffield experience of patient and public involvement (PPI) in the INTEGRATE-HTA project
2014 Conference
Abstract:
Background: More people living with life-limiting illnesses such as cancer and heart disease benefit from palliative care. Palliative care aims to enhance quality of life for patients and families. However, palliative care services vary widely across Europe. An EU-funded project (INTEGRATE-HTA) is developing new Health Technology Assessment methods and testing these in palliative care. Patients and the public in six European countries have been involved in several ways and will continue to do so throughout the project.
Aims: To share reflections on the experiences of the Sheffield PPI representatives involved in INTEGRATE-HTA.
Methods: In Sheffield, 20 PPI representatives have been advisors in the INTEGRATE-HTA project to date. Two PPI representatives have extended their involvement, participating in a range of project activities using a variety of methods.
Reflections on patient and public Involvement: The PPI representatives’ reflections on their involvement will focus on the stakeholder advisory meetings; their work on the Sheffield management group; their participation in the project partners’ annual meeting and their experience of assisting with evidence reviews. These reflections, and those of the Sheffield research team will highlight the opportunities, benefits and challenges that PPI provides on a large European project. The lessons learned from PPI will also be highlighted.
Conclusions: International PPI potentially plays an important role in shaping European projects. Sheffield’s experience suggests that opportunities for valuable PPI need careful consideration of the benefits and challenges for all stakeholders.
Authors
Brereton ~ Louise
Research Fellow, University of Sheffield. Louise Brereton is a Research Fellow on INTEGRATE-HTA, an EU Framework 7 funded project. This three year project aims to develop new methods of Health Technology Assessment for complex interventions. Throughout the project, this will involve liaising with academic colleagues, clinicians and patient panels in seven European countries.
View all articles by this authorCork ~ Simon
Simon Cork is currently a mature student at the University of Sheffield and became a patient and public involvement (PPI) representative after the passing of his wife in 2007. His main involvement has been on studies connected to palliative care, and he has been involved with INTEGRATE-HTA since July 2013.
View all articles by this authorGath ~ Jacqui
Retired Administrator and Member of the North Trent Cancer Research Network (NTCRN) Consumer Research Panel. Jacqui joined the NTCRN Consumer Research Panel following treatment for cancer. Jacqui’s involvement includes input to local and national trials, studies, and committees, and membership of an Ethics Committee.
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