Effects and mechanisms of an allied health research position in a Queensland regional and rural health service: a descriptive case study.

In conclusion, the case study highlights the potential value of an AH research position in building research capacity within a large non-metropolitan health service. Factors to facilitate ongoing success could include additional research and administrative funding, as well as increased use of technology and team-based research.What is known about the topic? Dedicated research positions embedded within health care settings are a well cited strategy to increase research capacity building of allied health professionals (AHPs). However the majority of these positions are within metropolitan health settings and unique challenges exist for these roles in regional and rural areas. Few studies have described the impact of dedicated AH research positions within regional health centres or the factors which facilitate or hinder their role.What does this paper add? Dedicated research positions within a non-metropolitan Australian health service may have a positive impact on AH clinical services, research culture, staff upskilling, research infrastructure and research collaborations. Key enabling mechanisms to support the role may include advocacy from higher level management, strong networks and communication channels. Additional research and administrative funding, the use of technology and team based research may enhance sustainability of such roles.What are the implications for practitioners? AH research positions have potential value in building research capacity within a large non-m...

Source: Australian Health Review - October 30, 2017 Category: Hospital Management Authors: Wenke RJ, Tynan A, Scott A, Mickan S Tags: Aust Health Rev Source Type: research