The impact of participation in research for speech and language therapy departments and their patients: A case example of the Big CACTUS multicentre trial of self-managed computerized aphasia therapy.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: In order to conduct research that is meaningful to speech and language therapy services and their patients, it is often desirable to conduct the research within routine clinical services. This can require considerable time and commitment from speech and language therapists (SLTs). It is therefore important to understand the impact that such participation in research can have. AIMS: To explore the impact of research participation in the Big CACTUS study of self-managed computerized aphasia therapy conducted in 21 UK NHS speech and language therapy departments. METHODS & PROCEDURES An online survey was sent to SLTs who took the lead role for the study at their NHS Trust to evaluate the impact of study participation in three domains capacity-building, research development and health services. The questionnaire, based on the VICTOR framework for evaluating research impact, included Likert scale statements and closed and open-ended questions. The results from open-ended questions were coded and analysed using framework analysis in NVivo 12 and the data from closed questions were analysed descriptively. OUTCOMES & RESULTS: A total of 12 SLTs returned the survey. Nine codes were identified from open-ended questions and 20 predefined from the literature. Analysis of the responses demonstrated the perceived impact including improvements in practices and access to therapy, investments in infrastructure, increased SLT profile, and impact on research culture among SLTs. The usefulness of the intervention during the COVID-19 pandemic was also highlighted. CONCLUSIONS & IMPLICATIONS The results suggest participation in Big CACTUS has resulted in improvements in patient care and SLT research capacity and culture in speech and language therapy departments. WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS What is already known on the subject Practice-based research is encouraged to assist with the clinical relevance of the research findings. Participation in research can be seen as an activity that is additional to the core business of patient care and it can be difficult to secure time to participate or conduct research in clinical settings. Impact evaluation initiatives of individual trials facilitate early identification of benefits beyond the trial. What this paper adds to existing knowledge This study describes specific examples of the impact on services, staff and patients from SLT participation and leadership in the Big CACTUS speech and language therapy trial in clinical settings. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this study? Clinical services participating in research may benefit from improved clinical care for patients both during and after the study, an improved professional reputation, and increased research capacity and culture within the clinical settings.