PATHOLOGY AND RESEARCH TASK FORCE
Translational research is an area identified as a national priority and is dependent on effective cooperation and collaboration with pathologists. Pathologists contribute specialist expertise to underpin the quality of research, both in clinical research and animal models of human disease, and provide access to well characterised, high quality human biological samples. Despite many new opportunities to advance the understanding of disease and improve the diagnosis and treatment of patients, there are concerns regarding difficulties in engaging National Health Service (NHS) pathologists in research, compounded by severe shortages of academic pathology expertise. In response to this, the National Cancer Research Institute (NCRI) established a short-lived Task Force to explore the issues and identify areas where action can be targeted to best effect.
The full report from the Task Force, “Fostering the Role of Pathology in Research”, can be down loaded here.
The executive summary can be downloaded here.
The press release can be downloaded here
The survey conducted by onCore UK, in collaboration with the Pathological Society, on the effect of regulation and governance on research led by pathologists or involving pathology in the UK can be downloaded here.
The survey on interactions between the Cancer Research Networks and NHS Pathology Services conducted by the National Cancer Research Network (NCRN) can be down loaded here.
Researchers, research funders, NHS staff, regulators, patients and others are already engaged in a range of discussions and are taking forward actions aimed at resolving the issues highlighted in this report. The continuing commitment of all stakeholders is needed to ensure that this early progress is sustained. The NCRI Secretariat and onCore UK will continue to monitor the actions and ensure that benefits are delivered. Brief update reports will be published on this site from time to time.
