What is experimental medicine?

What is experimental medicine? 

Experimental medicine is the name for early-phase studies in humans. These humans may be healthy people, or patients with conditions or in a particular situation (such as undergoing major surgery). Experimental medicine studies are designed to demonstrate ‘proof of concept,’ including safety feasibility and efficacy. If successful, the next step is larger ‘effectiveness’ clinical trials where the question is asked - does this treatment work in practice?

What is NIHR WEMN?

NIHR WEMN is a Wessex-wide network incorporating NHS trusts and universities. It is a collaboration between the NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre and Wessex Health Partners. The aim is to build research capacity and collaborations in experimental medicine right across Wessex. We hope to spread opportunities to undertake experimental medicine research in these organisations so that wherever you work in Wessex, you will have access to the right support and opportunities. 

Who is NIHR WEMN helping?

Greater knowledge, leading to increased capacity and capability to deliver experimental medicine, helps both patients and healthcare providers. Medical research leads to new treatments, technologies and care models which improve patient outcomes and health. Importantly, healthcare organisations which engage in research have increased staff job satisfaction and therefore are more likely to recruit and retain staff. There is also evidence that research active organisations deliver better care for their patients.

What other impacts might we see?

Other important impacts include better engagement and increased collaboration between healthcare providers, universities and community and industry partners. This in turn should deliver better outcomes in health challenges relevant to local communities as well as attracting inward investment to the place we all call home - Wessex.

Is anyone else working in this way?

We aren't aware of any other regions currently working together in this way. NIHR WEMN is a unique offering from the NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre delivered with the help of Wessex Health Partners. 

We are very proud and excited about potential developments – watch this space!  

Please contact me for more information Ruth.Challis@uhs.nhs.uk