Trust celebrates Clinical Trials Day and highlights life-changing research

This Clinical Trials Day, Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust is celebrating the work of its Research & Innovation (R&I) team and the life-changing studies helping to improve care for patients across the Trust.

One important study currently taking place at the Trust is the MAMA study, which is exploring how best to support people with arthritis during pregnancy.

The study is investigating whether it is better to continue or stop biologic medication during pregnancy, helping to build clearer evidence and guidance for both patients and clinicians. The findings could play an important role in supporting safer and more informed decision-making for expectant parents living with arthritis.

Patients who are pregnant, or planning a pregnancy, and are currently being treated for arthritis with a biologic medication are encouraged to speak to their midwife or healthcare team to find out more about the study.

Supporting future research and innovation

Alongside ongoing clinical research, the Trust is also continuing to invest in future innovation through enablement funding. Recently, two new studies received a combined £40,000 in support, with £20,000 provided by Brighter Futures, the Trust’s charity, and matched by a further £20,000 from the Research & Innovation team.

One of the studies focuses on palliative care research, helping to improve understanding and experiences for patients and families receiving end-of-life care. The funding will help researchers develop and expand important projects aimed at improving patient outcomes and experiences across the Trust.

Research making a difference across the Trust

The past few months have been particularly busy for the Trust’s Research & Innovation team, with 113 new participants recruited into research studies, 115 active clinical studies taking place, and six new studies opened across a range of specialties. These include Rheumatology, Cardiology, Cancer, Public Health and Neurology, reflecting the breadth of research activity taking place across the organisation.

Clinical Trials Day is celebrated internationally each year to recognise the vital role research plays in improving healthcare and patient outcomes. The Trust would like to thank all patients, staff and research partners who continue to support and take part in research studies.