Establishing a Patient-Centred Collaborative Research Model to Inform Research Priority Setting within Fraser Health’s Mental Health and Substance Use Services Program

The Mental Health and Substance Use (MHSU) program at Fraser Health recently formed a research unit to provide strategic oversight and direction for the conduct of research. In order to foster a collaborative model that considers the perspectives of people with lived;living experiences (PWLLEs) in the identification of MHSU’s research priorities, we aim to convene a diverse group of PWLLEs, clinicians, and researchers. We will work with BC SUPPORT Unit and a patient engagement expert to facilitate the recruitment of diverse PWLLEs. These PWLLEs will work closely with two clinicians and the Research Lead to form the priority setting group and set a research agenda for the program. The group will meet monthly for a 9-month period to discuss and prioritize research ideas and ad-hoc requests submitted to the research unit. Following the initial 9-month period, we will conduct interviews with members to evaluate the priority setting process, including potential barriers and facilitators to PWLLE engagement. The proposed activities will act as a proof-of-concept model for patient-centred research and priority setting at MHSU, with the potential for continued, long-term adoption by the MHSU leadership team if found to be successful.