Patients partnering in research

Patient partners are equal members of research teams, and provide input during various steps of a research study. This could include study design, priority setting, gathering and analyzing data, and helping distribute and implement research results.

Patients include individuals with personal experience of the health system including informal caregivers, family and friends, and members of the public.

Note: It is recognized that some groups and individuals prefer terms such as people with lived experience, clients, consumers or community members.

The BC SUPPORT Unit and Fraser Centre has adopted the engagement spectrum from the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2). It means working with patients along a spectrum ranging from consultation to involvement, to collaboration and empowerment. The goal is to have a meaningful and active partnership with the patients.

If you are a patient or a family member and are interested in becoming a patient partner, fill out the inquiry form or email us at frasercentre@healthresearchbc.ca.

Learn more about the BC SUPPORT Unit Fraser Centre and how you can support your patient-oriented research.

In addition, check out these resources:

• REACH BC is a new online platform that connects the public and patients with research opportunities related to their health conditions and/or interests, to ultimately advance health care and improve health outcomes in British Columbia.  Search the public REACH BC Directory for opportunities to be involved in research as a participant or patient partner. 
• The Patient Voices Network is a great way to find out about various opportunities for patients to get involved.
• Next time you are offered the consent to contact form, complete it so researchers can find you to participate as a subject in future studies.
• Sign up to receive email updates from the Fraser Centre. 

For information on how to get involved in a clinical trial, please visit our It Starts With Me section.

For information on how to get involved as a patient advisors,  please visit our Get Involved section.

Get information on news and events taking place in Fraser region.

Check out the following websites to find resources and training related to patient-oriented research:

• BC SUPPORT Unit: Find other people to collaborate with, and get access to more tools, resources and information and patient-oriented research in BC.”

• PORCCH: An interactive online curriculum on patient-oriented research, focused on child health. This collaborative and co-created effort offers three modules for patients and families to learn about health research and patient engagement.

• PCORI’s Research Fundamentals: this free online training module offers different ways to learn about the health research process and how to be involved in patient-oriented research activities.”