MEDICAL research produces better outcomes when people with lived experience are involved in the process, according to Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA).
The consumer organisation has welcomed the Australian Government's $1.89 billion 'Health Research for a Future Made in Australia' funding package, and highlighted the importance of involving consumers in research.
Announced last week by Health Minister Mark Butler, the package includes $1.4 billion for new research projects via the Medical Research Future Fund, including in priority areas such as women's health and chronic pain.
"Despite progress in treating significant diseases such as breast cancer, which affects over 20,000 people in Australia each year, there are still huge disparities in outcomes," said BCNA Director of Policy, Advocacy & Support Services, Vicki Durston.
"Investing in Australian medical research is vital in improving outcomes but is most effective when people with lived experience are central and the research is designed to find solutions to meet their needs."
More clinical trials are needed, particularly in rural and regional areas where distance can act as a barrier to consumer participation, Durston emphasised.
She also advocated for research agendas to be influenced by consumer needs as opposed to just commercial interests. JM
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