Patient and public involvement in translative healthcare research

Abstract

Purpose – This paper aims to set out a framework that can be used for locating strategies for incorporating patient and public involvement (PPI) in the wider process of translative healthcare research. Design/methodology/approach – This paper is analytical and synthesizes knowledge from several disciplines in order to provide a coherent framework for understanding the scope and purpose of PPI. The framework sets out four idealised strategies for PPI based on mode and purpose of involvement. The paper concludes by summarising a range of implications for organisations involved in the governance of translative healthcare research. Findings – The framework defines four idealised strategies for PPI in translative healthcare research. The strategies range in purpose from collecting patient data, through to improving public involvement and knowledge with respect to healthcare research. Practical implications – The framework presented has direct relevance for agencies concerned with the management and governance of translative healthcare research. The framework is relevant when either designing or auditing research pathways in terms of PPI activities. The framework is also important in highlighting to healthcare leaders, researchers, patients and the wider public, the potential role of participation in healthcare research. Originality/value – This paper’s value is that it combines perspectives from the wider literature on innovation, user-led design and participation, to the problem of translative healthcare research