How to Make Research a Part of Everyday Healthcare

Healthcare is always seeking improvements. Research is a crucial part of that progress. However, many healthcare workers view research as something separate from their daily tasks. This disconnect can hinder progress. So, how can we change this mindset? One effective approach is to start at the beginning. When new staff members join, they typically go through an induction process. This is an ideal opportunity to show them how research fits into their roles. By making this training compulsory, everyone starts with a shared understanding. Research is not just an add-on. It is a vital part of their job. The INTRO project put this idea into action. They used a method called the Nominal Group Technique. This technique encourages people to share their thoughts and ideas in a structured manner. The aim was to get key players in healthcare to agree on the best way to integrate research into everyday practice. But the project didn't stop at what to teach. It also focused on how to teach it. The goal was to make the training engaging and effective. After all, if the training is dull, no one will pay attention. And that would defeat the purpose. The project also considered how to measure success. It wasn't enough to just say, "We did the training. " They wanted to see real changes in how healthcare workers view and use research. This is where critical thinking comes in. It's not just about checking boxes. It's about making a real difference. So, what's the key takeaway? Starting with a strong induction process can make a big difference. It can help new staff see the value of research from day one. But it's not just about the training. It's about creating a culture where research is valued and used every day. That's the real challenge. And it's one that healthcare is still working to overcome.