Claire feels that researchers should reflect on how they can be more inclusive
Transcript
Yeah, well, I would have to say that it requires more effort. So, I think often when patients are engaged in research, it’s that convenience factor “Oh, I have a patient who’s articulate,” but, they may not be representative of the broader society. And it is my concern that we don’t have representation – full representation – as patient-partners. So, when I think about, you know, members of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) community, or people who, you know, may be homeless or struggling with mental health issues, where they may be language barriers, as well, you know, new immigrants or I’m just concerned that we don’t have full inclusion.
Interviewer: And are there strategies that researchers can actually – how would they actually make sure of that? Have you seen examples of where that works well? Of where they made an effort, as you say, to be inclusive.
Yeah. So, as a healthcare administrator a number of years ago, I was involved in a study looking at the provision of homecare and long-term care to members of the LGBTQ community. And they used a lot of very flexible strategies in terms of social media, and just reaching out to community groups, so, there are advisory committees. I know in the UK, there tend to be more advisory committees. So, I’m wondering if, you know, the formation or even the knowledge, the research team’s knowledge of, you know, members of the stroke community or, you know, shelters for women. So, just being creative and really thinking about how they might be more inclusive.
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