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Theme 10: Cross-cutting themes

Cross-cutting topics were prioritised through the steer of our Scientific Advisory Group to enhance synergy across our nine themes. Through the development of cross-cutting research activities, our aim was to develop scientific thinking in the following disciplines:

Epistemology and methodology

In addition to Directing CLAHRC BBC, Professor Richard Lilford led our methodological and epistemological cross-cutting research activities. The overarching aim was to develop frameworks for qualitative and quantitative evaluations of policy and service delivery interventions. We supported a number of cross-theme appointments, who had special methodological experience to allow for a mixed-methods approach across the nine themes.

Sociology

Cross-cutting research lead – Professor Sheila Greenfield

Our medical sociologists conducted exploratory work across six cross-cutting sociological research topics. These topics emerged across nine themes and include:

  • Methodologies in healthcare evaluation
  • Changing behaviours in chronic disease
  • Compliance and non-adherence
  • Place and health spaces
  • Professional and lay conceptions of knowledge about health
  • Embodiment

We have published papers in the following areas:

Methodologies in healthcare

A paper in the BMC Medical Research Methodology focused on the use of an arts-based method to reach populations who are hard to engage in academic research. Using rangoli, a South Asian craft, our research explored the relationship of faith, culture, health and food in South Asian communities in Birmingham. This generated evidence for addressing cultural difference in the design and provision of health services.

Professional and lay conceptions of knowledge and health

Two papers published in BMC Family Medicine and Family Practice have explored health professional, patient and general public perception of cardiovascular disease, which is linked to our cardiovascular disease theme (6).

Place and health spaces

This has been used as the framework for our paediatric theme (2) in examining paediatric services delivered closer to home.

Knowledge Management

CLAHRC BBC paid increasing attention to working with NHS partners and with patients and the public, not only to evaluate new service developments, but to determine what those developments should be.

A systematic reviewer supports our knowledge translation work and he has been commended by NHS colleagues for his review of existing research on the integration of health and social care.

We hold knowledge exchange forums with NHS organisations local authorities and clinical commissioning groups to understand their serviced improvement needs and public health issues, and to provide feedback on the evidence available around a particular topic.

Theme lead

Epistemology and methodology - Professor Richard Lilford

Sociology - Professor Sheila Greenfield