Consumer and Community Involvement Program (CCIP)
As one method to incorporate more consumer perspectives into musculoskeletal research, OPUS recruits all members of the community with an interest in health care to into a Consumer and Community Involvement Program (CCIP).
WHAT IS OPUS?
A total joint replacement (TJR) procedure is considered the go-to treatment option for people living with severe osteoarthritis. Almost 2 million Australians will undergo surgery in the next 15 years at a cost of almost $70 billion. But is it the best option for people with osteoarthritis?
OPUS is a collection of surgeons, GPs, physiotherapists, biostatisticians and health economists striving to improve and streamline the patient journey through evidence-based research: creating a more personalised, cost effective management journey for each patient.
WHAT IS CONSUMER AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT (CCI)?
Members of the public with little-to-no scientific background, of any age or gender, are encouraged to participate in osteoarthritis-related research projects. No need experience with osteoarthritis or a scientific background is needed, all you need is an interest in improving health care and working with researchers!
The CCIP offers consumers the opportunity to partner with researchers to improve health care by providing feedback and input into OPUS research programs. In turn, researchers receive an invaluable fresh perspective on the appropriateness, relevance and applicability of their research. By engaging consumers at every stage of the research journey, we ensure our research outcomes meet community expectations.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF JOINING THE CCIP?
Participants of the program:
- Represent the interests of consumers and present consumer views, values and concerns
- Learn about exciting developments in medical research
- Network and collaborate with researchers, physiotherapists, surgeons, health economists and students
- Become an advocate for osteoarthritis awareness in the community
HOW DOES IT WORK?
With varying levels of participation, consumers can sign up at different tiers depending on your interest and time commitment. For certain tiers we provide remuneration for the time taken in the form of gift cards.
INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE OR WANT TO GET IN TOUCH?
Do you know someone who wants to get involved in research? Or are you thinking of incorporating consumers into your own research? Head to: www.opus-tjr.org.au/programs/ccip or email Michelle at: michelle.lam@unimelb.edu.au.