Pioneering Midlothian GP practice proud to launch dedicated primary care research facility

A pioneering GP practice in Midlothian has launched its own dedicated clinical research facility, encouraging patient participation and other surgeries to follow its example.

Penicuik Medical Practice has successfully adapted one of its consultation rooms, turning it into a readymade space with key equipment for driving clinical research opportunities which are of benefit to both its patients and staff.

Supported by the guidance of the NHS Research Scotland (NRS) Primary Care Network and funding from NHS Lothian Charity, the practice is excited to be at the forefront of what it considers to be a new era in the country’s clinical trial ambitions.

It will be a groundbreaking example of the newly established Practice Embedded Research Units (PERUs) being rolled out across Scotland, with research considered a key part of the core business.

The Primary Care Network believes the Penicuik practice can be a leader in taking research opportunities into the heart of communities, promoting greater equity of access, and potentially helping to make important breakthroughs.

Chief Nurse for Research and Development at NHS Lothian, Juliet MacArthur was invited to perform the ribbon cutting honours on Tuesday 3 March and is proud that the region is leading the way.

Director of Research and Innovation for NHS Lothian, Alasdair Gray said:

The launch of a new, dedicated clinical research facility at Penicuik Medical Practice is a significant step toward our goal of integrating research into clinical care. Patients in Lothian now have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials, locally to home in their own GP practice. Thank you to the teams involved. Your hard work is greatly appreciated.”

Practice Manager James Reilly considers the introduction of the new facilities to be part of “an important culture change” for health and social care.

He said:

We are proud to be taking what we believe is the next logical step in moving research opportunities closer to patients and carers who might not otherwise have the chance to get involved.

“If this isn’t done, then Scotland’s research ambitions run the risk of missing out on a section of the population which can offer valuable insights and further our collective understanding at an important time.

“As a practice, we feel that research is essential for progress in healthcare, as is the need to deliver it in accessible, familiar settings. The vast experience and sustained enthusiasm for change which we’ve received from the Primary Care Network has only made that conviction stronger.

“On a local level, doing so can also mean benefits for our patients with the hope that it can either help improve outcomes, empower them through participation, or simply offer them more information.

“The research space further represents a hub of teaching and training for our staff, adding an interesting new dimension to the job at a time when recruitment of new doctors into general practice can be challenging.”

Penicuik Medical Practice previously welcomed involvement in a Long COVID trial as part of its first steps in expanding research opportunities and received positive feedback from local participants.

NRS Primary Care Network’s Lead Research Nurse Andrew Deans, who coordinates and facilitates vital research in primary care locations, first approached the practice with the research opportunity.

He said:

Expanding this work and providing targeted support to GPs has several benefits – increasing capacity to undertake research, allowing GPs and practices to enhance their research experience, and offering opportunities for patients to participate, whilst improving awareness.

“The staff at Penicuik Medical Practice have been fantastic from the very start and really receptive to the concept of bringing research into our communities. It’s great that we’ve now been able to use that trust and partnership to refurbish and equip what has become a dedicated clinical research space.

“Funding from NHS Lothian Charity has also been key to turning idea into the reality of the first space of its kind in the area, aligning with national priorities to expand trial accessibility and inclusion. For that we’re very grateful.”

Jane Ferguson, Director of NHS Lothian Charity, said:

We’re delighted to have supported NHS Lothian colleagues to pioneer a sustainable, community-driven approach to research at Penicuik Medical Practice. It’s fantastic to see research brought closer to patients and communities, making participation easier and more accessible.”