Devon GP practice secures major funding to accelerate local health research

A mid Devon-based GP practice has secured major funding to expand its research activity, making it easier for more patients to benefit from local, life-changing research.

Amicus Health has been awarded £27,959.88 from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) to create dedicated research spaces and invest in specialist equipment, helping to expand opportunities for patients to take part in research such as heart failure, diabetes, stroke and asthma.

Providing NHS medical services to over 24,000 patients across mid Devon, Amicus Health is a research-active organisation with a strong track record of delivering successful studies providing insight into a wide range of patient conditions.

Dr Gregory Davies, GP Partner at Amicus Health, said: “This funding is fantastic news for our patients and our community. With dedicated spaces and specialist equipment, we can expand the number and complexity of the studies we offer. This means more people can take part in research that is relevant to them, helping to improve care for conditions that affect our local population and directly improving the services we provide. It also strengthens the role of GP practices in delivering national research, making it more accessible to patients across the region.”

The Amicus Health network of GP practices is part of the South West Commercial Research Group, a collaboration of eight NHS organisations. Working with partners including the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, it brings together expertise to increase research activity, access funding opportunities, and provide training and education across the South West.

Professor Helen Quinn, of the South West Commercial Research Group, said: “We are delighted to see this funding awarded to Amicus Health, recognising the important role primary care plays in delivering research. Through the South West Commercial Research Group, we are proud to work with general practices and other NHS Trusts. Together we can offer more opportunities for patients to benefit from health research. Amicus Health is a strong example of what can be achieved, and this investment will help further develop the infrastructure and expertise needed to deliver research at scale.”

Working closely with regional partners and the life science sector, the SWCRG is also supported by the NIHR South West Peninsula Regional Research Delivery Network.

You can find out more on the SW CRG website here:https://www.swcommercialresearch.nhs.uk/

Learn more about Amicus Health here: https://www.amicushealth.nhs.uk/