Abstract

Background Research and development are an integral part of the quality agenda for the National Health Service (NHS). In 2001, teaching primary care trusts (TPCTs) were set up to develop posts rooted in research and educational activities.
Objectives The aim of this case study was to explore the development of research culture, capacity and activity in a TPCT.
Design A case study approach was used to investigate the effect of the TPCT development on changes in research within the organisation.
Setting A TPCT in a rural county.
Results Working with a partnership approach, the TPCT built a research infrastructure by accessing NHS research capacity and development funding, in a highly productive way. Findings include evidence of increased research outputs, that research outcomes had a direct impact on the quality of local care, and a countywide research culture. The case study demonstrated processes and factors necessary for the development of successful research organisations, including leadership, the appointment of research facilitators and establishing research groups.
Conclusion TPCTs, working in partnerships, can provide the infrastructure and overcome barriers to doing research in order to support the NHS in delivering a research agenda that contributes to the quality of care and patient benefit in primary care. However, the research infrastructure is fragile. Guidance is needed from the Department of Health on how to proceed to secure long-term financial support so as not to waste the effort and funding already invested by the NHS.