Research Heroes of the Month - November 2022
Sajir refers patients to studies to help improve patient care
Research heroes are individuals who are part of a hidden army of staff supporting research across the organisation. We want to take the opportunity to celebrate their contribution and thank them for making a difference.
This month we focus on the story of one of our referrers of potential participants for research study.
Dr Sajir Al-sajir, Speciality Doctor
Older People’s Service East North East, Community Mental Health Team
A referrer for a research study is a health worker who identifies a potentially eligible individual and sends or directs them to the research team to be considered for participation in the research study. They can be a clinician, Allied Health Professional or other health worker involved in providing care/support to service users and their friends/relatives.
Sajir was one of the clinicians involved in supporting the Counted Research Study – “Communication about treatment options in memory assessment services.” He made a referral from his caseload and also took part as a participant clinician in the study.
He demonstrated great commitment and confidence in operating effectively in his role to support recruitment and participation and maintained a very positive attitude at every stage.
His contributions played a part in achieving the desired result to recruit to time and to target for the study, and most importantly it gave the eligible participants an opportunity to contribute to and to be involved in research.
Dr Al-sajir said: “I believe that our involvement and support to research is vital in improving patient care. I was impressed by our research team’s efforts where they worked passionately and tirelessly throughout the process. I enjoyed my experience and I will be delighted to be involved in future projects. I believe these projects could shape and improve patient’s and their relative’s care and experience with our services.”