This page provides answers to some frequently asked questions about research and the PCN contract DES, indemnity and General Data Protection Requirements (GDPR).
PCN contract DES
A PCN must ensure its Clinical Director has overall responsibility for facilitating participation by member practices in research studies and act as a link between the PCN and local primary care research networks and research institutions.
Indemnity
Research implementation is covered by the new national GP indemnity scheme as part of the Clinical Negligence Scheme for General Practice.
General Data Protection Requirements (GDPR)
It’s important you explain to your patients how you will be using their personal data, and what their rights are under the law.
NHS organisations and GP practices are expected to link from their webpages about research and about general use of patient information. The Health Research Authority (HRA) website provides full details.
In addition, GP practices are expected to publish information about the research projects they are involved in. Such records should include details of the sponsor, allowing participants to access further transparency information provided by sponsors.
Separate technical guidance is provided by the HRA for data protection officers, information governance officers and research governance managers.
