Westminster reception for PhD student intent on reducing the number of falls in hospitals
Posted on 30. Dec, 2009 by admin in Health & Social Work
Last summer Julie Udell, a PhD student in SHSSW, was invited to attend a Westminster reception of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Medical Research (a forum and network for Parliamentarians with an interest in medical research).
The event was hosted by Dr Evan Harris MP in the superb surroundings of the Members Dining Room and showcased the UK’s excellent medical research base, including the significant contribution made by medical research charities.
Julie has received almost £60,000 from the National Osteoporosis Society to help find ways of reducing the number of falls in hospitals and care homes, and was invited to attend the Westmintr summer reception to talk about her work. Julie’s study will investigate the psychological effects on patients in hospitals and care homes who are given advice and aids to help them move around, such as using handrails and walking aids. It will focus on talking to patients and their carers in hospitals and care homes and finding out what they think about the advice and practical measures recommended for preventing falls.
Speaking at the event, Professor Sir John Bell said: ‘The UK’s achievements as a leader in medical research should be celebrated. Investment in UK medical science has consistently provided research innovations that have a major impact on our healthcare. Key to delivering this agenda is a workforce of talented researchers and doctors, who are appropriately trained and supported throughout their careers. We must continue to invest in our aspiring researchers and doctors, allowing them to translate the latest breakthroughs in medical science into direct patient benefits.’
Julie’s research will be carried out over the next two years and the results are intended to help formulate guidelines for healthcare professionals to improve quality of patient care and the advice and treatment they receive to prevent a fall.
