The achievement follows a transformation in the way research is carried out at the hospital over the course of the last three years: The QEH has moved from primarily supporting observational research to delivering studies that actively test new medicines, treatments and approaches to care.
This is a transition that has required new specialist roles and close collaboration across services to ensure studies are delivered to national standards.
National performance
The national performance data ranks hospitals on the basis of the speed at which patients are recruited to research trials, how consistently research targets are met and the successful delivery of the trials.
The QEH is now leading, or contributing to, a number of high‑profile national studies. These include research into recovery after hip fracture, cardiology trials testing new treatments to improve heart health, and dermatology research evaluating therapies for chronic skin conditions.
This means that patients in West Norfolk can get earlier access to innovative treatments and receive care that is informed by the latest clinical evidence, without having to travel further afield.
‘High-quality clinical research’
Michelle Arrowsmith, Executive Managing Director at The QEH, said: “This recognition reflects the commitment and expertise of colleagues across the Trust.
“Over recent years, teams have worked together to strengthen our research capability so that patients in West Norfolk can benefit from high‑quality clinical research close to home.”
Tom Dymond, Lead for Research and Innovation, said: “Reaching a top‑10 national position demonstrates how far research at The QEH has progressed.
“Colleagues across clinical services, pharmacy and governance have played a vital role in enabling us to deliver complex studies safely, quickly and effectively.”