Developing a Cochrane review support network

Milan, Stephen and Evans, David and Spencer, Sally (2015) Developing a Cochrane review support network. In: REWARD/EQUATOR, 2015-09-282015-09-30. (Unpublished)

Abstract

Objectives a) raise awareness of Cochrane methods and reviews b) identify and support potential new authors c) promote, support and deliver systematic review methodology across topics and author teams Background and Methods The Lancaster Health Hub is a strategic health partnership based in the North West of England comprising 10 organisations: 2 Universities, 3 Acute NHS Trusts, 2 Specialist NHS Trusts, 2 NHS Clinical Commissioning Groups and a consumer network. The Hub is led by Lancaster University where the core support team is based. The Hub management team includes two Cochrane editors representing the following; Cochrane Airways Group, Cochrane Dementia and Cognitive Improvement Group, and Cochrane Developmental Psychosocial and Learning Problems Group. The Hub houses staff supporting two Cochrane Programme Grants; one with the Cochrane Airways Group and the other with the Cochrane Anaesthesia Group. A strategic plan was devised to grow research capability and review methods through the Hub research network, enabled by Hub infrastructure. Potential review authors were identified across the network and the Hub-based editors worked with managing and coordinating editors of Cochrane Groups to identify priority review topics suitable for author teams. Results Limitations Limitations around NHS time resources mean that training in review methods needs to be locally delivered across the network, rather than bespoke training by editors on an as-required basis. Attendance at free training sessions organised by the Cochrane Collaboration are largely impractical as they are delivered outside of the region and inaccessible to most clinical staff across our network. Moreover, an understanding of research methods and evidence-based practice can be enhanced where additional training supplements Cochrane methods support. Conclusions All new authors have a better understanding of the role of evidence in practice and good research methodology in terms of clinical trials and review methods. In addition to developing systematic review research capability throughout the region it is hoped that this initiative will enhance opportunities for promoting evidence-based patient care with an improved understanding of research. Particularly in relation to levels of evidence in the evaluation of healthcare interventions, the introduction of new findings and the reduction of uncertainties.