A new strategic partnership between NHS Lanarkshire and the University of Glasgow will seek to land the real-world benefits of research and innovation in healthcare.
The health board and the university will work closely together to improve healthcare services and support new research to secure better health outcomes for people living in Lanarkshire.
By combining NHS Lanarkshire’s focus on patient care with the University of Glasgow’s strengths in teaching and research, the partnership aims to bring real improvements in how healthcare is delivered.
Dr Chris Deighan, NHS Lanarkshire executive medical director, said: “This partnership is a big step forward for healthcare in Lanarkshire.
“There is strong evidence that involvement in clinical research and innovation leads to improved quality of healthcare. Working with the University of Glasgow means we can develop new ideas and use the latest research to improve care for our patients.”
Professor Matthew Walters, head of the school of medicine, dentistry and nursing and professor of clinical pharmacology at the University of Glasgow, said: “I am delighted that the University of Glasgow has signed a new agreement to work more closely with NHS Lanarkshire to further strengthen our important relationship.
“World-leading research is built on strong collaborations and this agreement will form the basis for closer working relations across our institutions, linking teaching and research with healthcare services to ultimately improve patient care and the healthcare we support.”
Key benefits of the partnership include:
- Better research opportunities: Teams will work together on important studies and trials that can lead to new and better treatments
- Training and education: Staff will have more chances to learn and develop, helping to attract and keep skilled healthcare workers in Lanarkshire
- Improved patient care: New ideas and ways of working will be tested and introduced to make services more effective and focused on patients’ needs
- Healthier communities: The partnership will focus on local health issues and finding ways to reduce inequalities, so everyone has a fair chance at good health
Professor Eamonn Brankin, associate medical director and lead for academic liaison at NHS Lanarkshire, added: “This is a great opportunity to connect research, education and frontline care. Together, we can create new ways of working that benefit patients and staff.”