DEVELOPMENT OF LONG TERM CONDITIONS RESEARCH STRATEGY FOR WALES

Introduction: To manage in the increasing population in the community with long term conditions there is a need for a focused research strategy to provide the evidence for future care in communities. PRIME Centre Wales is a research centre funded by the Welsh Government to health and wellbeing of people in Wales through research and translation into practice. Objectives: • To bring together researchers, representatives from government, local authorities, commercial sector, third sector, community members and their supporters/carers. • To identify the research issues, prioritise these and establish how they can be collectively delivered. Methodology A Nominal Group technique was used to develop the agreed research priorities. This consisted of three phases: participants were asked to consult with their colleagues and bring with them three priorities for research from their organisation, the negotiation process and development of an action plan. Results 1. Holistic needs assessment facilitate for: o Personal goal setting and action plan o Self-monitoring/technologies enabled care o Medication management to improve physical/mental function 2. How to improve data sharing infrastructure in all health or social care environments by using emerging technology. 3. Engaging with communities to contribute to their own health and social wellbeing. 4. Engaging practitioners and people with long term conditions in the value of their participation in generating research evidence and information dissemination. 5. Examine the effects of sensory loss on people with dementia, stroke survivors and their carers. Conclusion The development of a strategy can facilitate partnership across education, research, government, health services and service users.