Patient Partners

Partnership Expectations for MEL-STaR Scholars and Patient Partners

The MEL-STaR program brings together researchers/scholars and patient partners to collaborate on healthcare improvement projects over 18 months. This document outlines key expectations for both parties to ensure a productive partnership.

Scholar Expectations:

1. Engage patient partners as valuable team members, respecting their lived experiences and insights.

2. Clearly communicate project goals, timelines, and expectations to patient partners.

3. Provide necessary background information and explain research concepts as needed.

4. Actively seek patient partner input throughout the research process, from study design to result dissemination.

5. Be open to feedback and willing to adapt project elements based on patient perspectives.

6. Maintain regular communication with patient partners, addressing any concerns promptly.

7. Ensure patient-facing materials are clear, accessible, and use appropriate language.

8. Recognize and address potential barriers to patient participation in the study.

9. Uphold ethical standards, including maintaining confidentiality and obtaining informed consent.

10. Collaborate with patient partners to define and measure the impact of their involvement.

Patient Partner Expectations:

1. Attend scheduled meetings and review relevant documents. (Roughly 20-25 hours over the next year, approx. 2-4 hours per month) -- $3000 stipend

2. Share insights based on personal health experiences while considering broader patient perspectives.

3. Provide constructive feedback on study materials, protocols, and patient engagement strategies.

4. Maintain confidentiality regarding sensitive project information.

5. Advocate for patient-centered approaches in research design and implementation.

6. Communicate openly about availability, preferences, and any concerns that arise.

7. Actively participate in discussions, offering unique patient perspectives to inform the project.

8. Stay informed about basic research concepts and the specific project area.

9. Be willing to learn and grow throughout the partnership.

10. Reflect on personal contributions and the overall impact of patient involvement in the project.

Mutual Expectations:

1. Foster a relationship built on mutual respect, trust, and open communication.

2. Recognize and value the expertise that each party brings to the collaboration.

3. Work together to bridge communication gaps between researchers and patients.

4. Address challenges or conflicts constructively, seeking win-win solutions.

5. Celebrate successes and learn from setbacks together.

6. Continuously seek ways to improve the patient-researcher partnership.

7. Maintain a focus on the ultimate goal of improving healthcare outcomes for patients.

By fulfilling these expectations, scholars and patient partners can create a strong, effective collaboration that enhances the quality and relevance of healthcare research and improvements.