The RCP has launched a new 鈥楳aking the case for clinical research鈥 resource kit to help doctors advocate for research time in their job plans and training programmes, and act against the sharp decline in clinical researchers in the NHS.
Despite clear evidence that research-active hospitals deliver better patient outcomes and experience lower staff turnover, many doctors struggle to engage in research due to time pressures. The RCP鈥檚 latest survey data shows that while 41% of UK consultant physicians are actively involved in research, 36% are interested but unable to participate, primarily due to a lack of dedicated time.
Investing in research not only improves patient outcomes and staff retention but also delivers significant economic benefits, driving innovation, attracting funding, and improving efficiency within the NHS.
The RCP鈥檚 resource kit provides consultant and resident physicians with the evidence they need to make the case for research time in discussions with employers and training bodies about job planning and time of out training.
The kit highlights the existing on research in the Health and Care Act 2022 in England 鈥 which require Integrated Care Boards to facilitate research 鈥 as well as the General Medical Council鈥檚 , which recognises research as a professional duty, to help doctors to strengthen their case when negotiating job plans or training programmes.
Professor Tom Solomon CBE, academic vice president of the 甜心直播, said: 鈥淐linical research is of fundamental importance to the NHS but it has become harder, not easier, for doctors on the ground. Doctors want to undertake research, but without protected time, it is incredibly difficult to do so. This resource kit is a practical tool to help clinicians leverage existing legal duties and guidance that say research should be happening to advocate for time to do research so they can contribute to medical advancements while continuing to provide excellent patient care.鈥
With clinical research central to the NHS鈥 ability to innovate, the RCP is urging UK policymakers, NHS leaders, and trusts to prioritise time for research, even amid current system pressures, because it is essential to the government鈥檚 wider ambitions for a more effective, evidence-based health service. Without dedicated time and support for clinicians to engage in research, these ambitions risk being undermined.
The resource kit also highlights key funding and training opportunities, including the RCP鈥檚 Whitney Wood scholarship&苍产蝉辫;鈥 now open for 2025 applications 鈥 and the NIHR鈥檚 Clinical Researcher Credential Framework, which was developed in collaboration with the RCP to support clinicians at different stages of their research journey.
Research is a key priority for the RCP. The college is gathering fresh insights into physicians鈥 experiences of clinical research through its latest Focus on Physicians survey, which closes on 2 June 2025, helping to identify barriers and advocate for solutions.