Working in primary care research: Binitha’s story

Researchers at the University of Oxford are recruiting people with acute respiratory tract infections (ARI) to take part in a new study which analyses participant data to inform care and improve future clinical trials.

The POS-ARI-PC study, which is taking place across Europe, aims to provide insights into the treatment, diagnosis, and prevention of ARI in primary care, or community, settings.

Junior Project Manager, Binitha Paruthickal, explains more about the study and why she works in research.

Talk to your healthcare professional about taking part in research or search for studies seeking volunteers at Be Part of Research.

What is this research study about?

The ECRAID-Base project is the unification of several EU countries with a vision to build a sustainable united European front against emerging infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance. This infrastructure will function as a platform for a rapid research response in the face of serious infectious disease outbreaks. POS-ARI-PC is one such study within the ECRAID-Base project that is aimed at setting up this research infrastructure within primary care settings across Europe. We will also carry out a broad range of enhanced observational studies and clinical trials that will help generate evidence for the prevention and management of ARI within the community.

What does taking part involve?

Participants are invited to take part in the study when they present to participating GP practices with symptoms of an acute respiratory infection. A baseline assessment will be completed and a combined throat and nose swab will be taken to confirm the infection. During the study, participants will need to complete an online or paper diary for 14 days to chart their symptoms. There could also be several plug-in studies added to this platform in which the study procedures and eligibility criteria could vary.

Participants may also be invited for an optional qualitative interview with a researcher. This is to have a deeper insight into their perspective and experience from participating in this study that could help researchers refine interventions and improve study designs for the future.

What motivates you to work in research?

Working on this study has given me a strong sense of purpose in knowing that I am advancing medical science. I am inspired to play a part in building a research-ready infrastructure that could help reduce the impact of infectious diseases. I also enjoy working in an internationally collaborative and intellectually stimulating workspace.

What would you say to people about considering whether to take part in research?

Participating in research can be a rewarding and meaningful experience but it is important to carefully consider your decision before agreeing to take part. Potential study participants should make sure that they have a clear understanding of the research study by taking time to read the participant information sheet and discuss any questions with the research team.

Remember that your contribution can help foster medical and scientific innovation however, your decision to take part is entirely voluntary and need to feel empowered to make an informed choice.

To find out more about the project visit the ECRAID-Base website. Click here to learn more about the POS-AR-PC study.

Talk to your healthcare professional about taking part in research or search for studies seeking volunteers at Be Part of Research.