University of Oxford wins Prix Galien Award 2024 for public sector innovation

‘Pharmacists can engage in observational studies and assist in setting up clinical research sites,’ states Professor Mahendra Patel, the PRINCIPLE Trial’s Black, Asian and minority ethnic Community and Pharmacy Lead at University of Oxford

The Galien Foundation recently announced the winners of the 2024 Prix Galien UK Awards, with the University of Oxford receiving accolades for its groundbreaking contributions to public sector innovation through the PRINCIPLE and PANORAMIC Trials.

These trials, spearheaded by Oxford’s team of experts, have set a new standard for scientific innovation aimed at improving global health outcomes.

Led by University of Oxford, the PRINCIPLE and PANORAMIC Trials epitomize a remarkable collaboration aimed at combating the COVID-19 pandemic.

These trials, driven by a sense of urgency and the need for effective treatments, represent a significant milestone in the quest for innovative healthcare solutions.

Professor Mahendra Patel, CEO of the Centre for Research Equity through Pharmacy, Communities and Healthcare sheds light on the significance of these trials stating:

“So many individuals have contributed to these trials,  shaping national and international policy and guidance aimed at enhancing health outcomes.”

“Whether addressing antibiotic resistance, promoting appropriate antibiotic use among youth, or mitigating unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions—particularly pertinent during the COVID-19 pandemic—the collective effort has been immense,”  he continued.

“It wasn’t the work of just a few individuals but so many, and from across the four nations, who gave their all,” Patel emphasised.

One of the of the investors of the trials, Patel acted as the National Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic Community and Pharmacy Lead for the Principle trials to strengthen recruitment from across these communities.

The aim was to treat the illness and minimise hospitalisations through early symptom management as “We urgently required effective treatments because large numbers of people were adversely affected at a rate of knots and with many of them dying,” Patel stressed.

The trials that were conducted amidst the pandemic brought research directly to people’s homes, eliminating the need for them to travel to clinical trial sites for enrolment.

This approach ensured greater accessibility and convenience unprecedented in clinical research.

Furthermore, Patel underscored the crucial role of pharmacy networks in promoting trial participation.

Leveraging pharmacy networks across the UK, Patel through University of Oxford’s Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences and its Clinical Trials Unit, organised webinars and engaged community pharmacy outlets to spread awareness about the trials across the UK.

This strategic approach facilitated swift enrolment and ensured broad outreach across diverse audiences.

By partnering with a range of faith groups and medical organizations, including the Nigerian Doctors Association GB, the British Islamic Medical Association, and the British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin, as well as the Filipino Nurses Association UK and the General Pharmaceutical Council, the team ensured widespread engagement in promoting the trial across different communities and channels.

Future prospects for pharmacy in clinical trials

Reflecting on the future of pharmacy in clinical trials, Patel emphasised the transformative potential of community pharmacies.

“Pharmacies serve as the frontline in the community, catering to socially, economically, and ethnically diverse populations, including those who are often disproportionately affected and underserved,”

Patel remarked that they possess deep knowledge of their local communities, built on trust and confidence, and are well-positioned to extend their reach and support.

Following the work of the COVID-19 trials, Patel now envisions pharmacy playing a pivotal role in supporting research equity and pharmacists helping to shape inclusive clinical trials to become safer and more effective for the whole population and reducing health inequalities.

“With the relevant and appropriate research training in place, decentralising clinical trials and making them available through pharmacies is going to be an exciting prospect in the future, enabling more patients to better and more easily access research,” he explained.

“The fact that the world’s leading university wholeheartedly appreciates and recognise what a valuable and important role pharmacy can play in supporting research equity with now; the establishment of the Centre for Research Equity at the University of Oxford, is a real jewel in the crown for pharmacy and the development of more effective and safer treatments for all,” he said.

Community pharmacies can also actively participate in clinical trials, Patel noted.

“Pharmacists can engage in observational studies and assist in setting up clinical research sites. With proper training, community pharmacies can decentralise trials, enabling patients to access research opportunities without visiting traditional clinical trial sites,” he explained.

He encouraged the budding pharmacists to embrace opportunities to make a difference and showcase the transformative potential of their profession.

“Pharmacy has become the platform for the future of inclusive research, ensuring that we are helping to reduce health inequalities and improve health outcomes,” he stated.

He also emphasised collaborative efforts with regulators and professional bodies to encourage greater involvement in research across healthcare disciplines.

“In terms of the future of pharmacy and the profession- yes we are having to live through struggles, which is more of an understatement in some sectors than others. But I genuinely believe it’s still so inspiring to consider where pharmacy is heading in the future with so many opportunities at our disposal,” he expressed.

“By leveraging the essence of pharmacy and fostering collaboration, we can pave the way for building bridges and driving innovation across disciplines,” he highlighted.

The recognition of Oxford University’s pioneering efforts in public sector innovation underscores the institution’s commitment to advancing healthcare and shaping the future of clinical research which has the potential to involve pharmacists.

Professor Sir Munir Pirmohamed, Chair of the Prix Galien UK Committee, expressed his delight at celebrating this year’s winners.

“Our winners have demonstrated exceptional dedication and ingenuity in advancing patient care and overall well-being. Their groundbreaking innovations inspire us all, and we anticipate the transformative impact of their work in the years ahead,” he remarked.

Other winners of the 2024 Prix Galien UK Awards include: