The Royal College of Pharmacy has welcomed the launch of Northern Ireland’s first Mobile Health Research Service, a new initiative aimed at improving participation in health research among underserved communities to help make it more accessible, representative and inclusive.

The service, developed by the Western Health and Social Care Trust in partnership with the Centre for Research Equity at the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, brings research opportunities directly to communities through a dedicated mobile unit, where people can learn about research studies, ask questions and make an informed choice about whether taking part is right for them.

Procedures such as blood pressure monitoring, ECGs, height and weight measurements, blood sampling and other research-related health checks can also be carried out at the unit, helping to improve participation among people living in rural, remote and socioeconomically disadvantaged areas.

The programme has been developed with support from Professor Mahendra Patel OBE, a Vice President of the College and Director of the Centre for Research Equity, Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford.

Professor Mahendra Patel OBE, Vice-President of the College, said:

“Health research can only improve health outcomes if everyone has a fair opportunity to take part. Too often, the people who stand to benefit most from research face practical, cultural or social barriers to participation.

“This initiative demonstrates how we can take research directly to communities, helping build trust, improve engagement and ensure the evidence that informs future healthcare better reflects the diversity of the population it serves.

“By reaching people who have traditionally been underrepresented in research, we can help address health inequalities and create a stronger evidence base for the future.”

Tase Oputu, President of the College, said:

“Reducing health inequalities requires innovation, collaboration and a commitment to ensuring every community has a voice in shaping healthcare.

“The Royal College of Pharmacy supports efforts to improve inclusion, reduce health inequalities and strengthen public confidence in health research. We hope lessons learned from the initiative will help inform similar approaches across the UK.”

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