Laishram Vidyalakshmi
Member Secretary, CIHSR-IEC
Introduction:
Each day we do a lot of decision making whether it is to buy a dress, car, build a new home or even when we buy groceries. We do a lot of researchand search it again and again. We also check its quality, and reviews and buy the one till it meets our criteria or it’s the best under the budget.
Research means to search again and again.
In our process of decision-making, we engage in extensive research to ensure that our choices align with our criteria and budget constraints. This continuous search for information, quality assessment, and review analysis mirrors the essence of research as defined by Dr. John W. Creswell, professor of family medicine and senior research scientist in the Michigan Mixed Methods Program at the University of Michigan. He defined research as “a process of steps used to collect and analyze information to increase our understanding of a topic or issue. It consists of three steps: Pose a question, collect data to answer the question, and present an answer to the question”.
Just as we all meticulously navigate through options to make informed decisions, researchers follow a structured path to enhance their understanding of a particular topic or issue. Both scenarios underscore the importance of thorough exploration and analysis in reaching a well-founded conclusion.
In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, Research improves patient care and shape the future of Medicine. Today we delve into the critical importance of research in health care and its profound impact on health outcomes and daily life.
Research in Healthcare:
Research in healthcare plays a pivotal role in advancing medical knowledge, enhancing treatment options, and addressing pressing health challenges. By conducting rigorous studies and clinical trials, researchers can uncover new therapies, diagnostic tools, and preventive strategies that have the potential to save lives and improve quality of life.
The impact of healthcare research extends far beyond the laboratory walls, reaching into our homes, communities, and daily routines. From the development of life-saving medications to the implementation of evidence-based guidelines, research findings directly influence healthcare practices, patient outcomes, and public health policies.
Consider recent studies like Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 Vaccine research which became a boon in battling Covid 19, offering a high level of protection in 2020; repairing of the human liver by lab-grown cell at NIHR, University of Cambridge by Sampazotis F et al 2021,etc were able to transform the lives of many individuals, offering hope where there was once despair.
Joshua N. Liberman, Chief operating officer and epidemiologist at Health Analytics, Columbia, gave 10 reasons on why research is important in health care. Here are some of the important reasons.
Research helps in identifying better ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat illnesses by providing insights into causes as well as potential treatments. Research findings can generate knowledge on what works best for various illnesses by studying lifestyle choices, dietary patterns, and various support systems. This information will help not only the doctor but also the patients and their family members in making decisions for their health.
Risk factors of certain diseases can also be identified by studying their patterns of occurrence and bringing out potential preventive measures like vaccines or bringing awareness about the need of lifestyle changes.
It can also help identify early warning signs of certain illnesses by examining new detection or diagnostic measures, clinical trials, and studying cases which helps in developing more accurate tools and effective treatments. It can also help us understand why some of us are affected differently based on age or genetics which allows us to take steps for prevention proactively.
Not only identifying illnesses, it can also help in identifying new and better ways to prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses by conducting studies to find out the effectiveness of various treatments for various illnesses.
Research also helps in identifying the best ways to care for patients. This is true in terms of doctors, nurses and other health care professionals too as they ensure evidenced based practices.
Research can not only help in early identification and treatment but also in the prevention of complications of illnesses.
It can also help in improving public communication by providing evidence-based information and disseminating the knowledge through radio, television, websites, newspapers, and publications. Overall, it helps in improving the quality and effectiveness of health care by generating new findings or outcomes and also influences the policy making related to health.
Future of healthcare research:
Looking ahead, the future of healthcare research holds immense promise for tackling complex health issues, harnessing cutting-edge technologies, and revolutionizing healthcare delivery. By investing in research initiatives that prioritize innovation, collaboration, and patient-centered care, we can pave the way for a healthier, more resilient society.
Call to Action:
As we reflect on the profound impact of research in healthcare, let us all recognize our role in supporting and advocating for continued investment in research efforts. We need to do much for our state, country, and the world to make it a better place for all of us.
We need a lot of research in our state Nagaland so that we can provide up-to-date health care information, spread awareness, develop cutting-edge health care technology for diagnosis and treatment, and provide health care choices at affordable prices for one and all.
In conclusion, research in healthcare serves as a driving force behind progress and innovation, offering hope, healing, and transformative solutions for individuals and communities worldwide. Let us be a part of research, start research, be involved in research, participate in research, and acknowledge its importance in shaping a healthier future for all of us.
