The PPI: SMART group recently surveyed 119 statistical methodologists, asking about themselves and their experience conducting PPI, either to inform a grant application or during a funded statistical methodology project.
They found that 40% of participants reported undertaking PPI to inform a grant application, whereas only 21% reported undertaking PPI during a methodological project.
Participants were generally positive about involvement of PPIE and had relevant examples of where it had a positive impact on their research. However, some participants felt that PPI had no place in statistical methodology and should be reserved for applied research.
Others thought that methodologists should be the members of the PPI group. Only 18% reported feeling confident in conducting PPI activities.
The need for more support in conducting PPI was shared by most participants.
The development of guidance, case studies and training were suggested to combat this and to improve researchers’ confidence in this area.
- Abell, L., Maher, F., Begum, S. et al. Incorporation of patient and public involvement in statistical methodology research: a survey assessing current practices and attitudes of researchers. Res Involv Engagem 9, 100 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40900-023-00507-5