9THE GERIATRIC MEDICINE RESEARCH COLLABORATIVE (GEMRC): INCEPTION AND DISSEMINATION OF A NEW NATIONAL TRAINEE-LED RESEARCH COLLABORATIVE TRAINEE-LED RESEARCH COLLABORATIVE

Abstract

Introduction: Over the last ten years, trainee-led research collaboratives have been established within the UK and internationally. Traditional pathways to promote collaboration between researchers can take years to expand beyond individual institutions and regions. Traditional collaboration relied on networking events and meetings, which were limited to geographically accessible areas, chance meetings or expensive trips. We aimed to set up the national Geriatric Medicine Research Collaborative with trainee representatives in all UK training regions. Methods: Our collaborative has been trainee-led from inception through to project management and conduct. We created national and regional websites to disseminate project information. We utilised a combination of e-mail communication, social networking, word-of-mouth, and dissemination through the British Geriatrics Society (BGS). Project ideas were generated by trainees at an initial meeting and communicated to regional representatives by e-mail, websites, and social media. Results: We have been successful in obtaining representatives for 13 out of 15 training regions in the UK within three months of creation, including collaboration with the previously formed Welsh Geriatricians Network (WeGeN). Collaborations have begun with other successful specialty networks, including orthopaedics, and general surgery. We have successfully completed two national audit projects, and we are in the process of refining the protocols for two Randomised Controlled Trials (RCTs). Conclusions: The Geriatric Medicine Research Collaborative (GeMRC) offers an innovative approach to research conduct. We urgently need to increase capacity in academic geriatric medicine. GeMRC facilitates the opportunity for trainees with limited research experience to be involved in all stages of research (including protocol design, recruitment, and analysis). A national structure allows for the rapid collection of real world data, leading to early analysis, dissemination, and impact upon patient care. Future milestones will be funding and approvals for a nationwide RCT.