Optimising Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Patients with Respiratory Conditions and Diseases

Summary

Background:
Promoting exercise and physical activity, and decreasing inactivity is a key evidence based recommendation for people with respiratory conditions. This is mostly achieved through pulmonary rehabilitation programmes, including exercise, education and self-management components.

Aim
To evaluate current pulmonary rehabilitation programmes including (i) early rehabilitation after acute exacerbation, (ii) outpatient and community programmes, (iii) ongoing and alternative approaches to delivery. Also to identify best practice and strategies to reduce waiting lists, promote and optimise uptake, outcomes and efficiencies in care.

Objectives

• Evaluate current pulmonary rehabilitation services in NI using a mixed-methods study involving a survey, Focus Groups and interviews (HPs, Exercise Instructors, Patients).
• Map service provision across the region, comparing service delivery to best practice guidelines.
• Identify gaps in service delivery as well as best practice models to promote engagement and participation in evidenced based pulmonary rehabilitation
• Explore staff and patients views of strategies to reduce waiting lists, support and optimise programme uptake and outcomes, using observational questionnaires and exit interviews.

Methods

An in-depth analysis of existing Pulmonary Rehabilitation programmes in Northern Ireland will be conducted using:

1. a surevy to all Health and Social Care Trusts and non NHS providers to explore current service provision (waiting times, type of programme, frequency of delivery, access, engegement).
2. a qualitative study (using Focus Group methodology and interviews) to better understand the gaps and any areas for improvement.
3. a cohort study with 40 patients, to retrospectively evaluate patient engagement and outcomes.
   Analysis: Survey-Descriptive summary of findings; Focus groups- thematic analysis; Cohort- descriptive and pre-post comparison.

Project Output

This PhD project will identify key approaches to optimise results from Pulmopmary Rehabilitation programmes and improve outcomes for patients with respiratory conditions. It will provide an opportunity to work with patients, healthcare and community partners, and a dynamic research team.

AccessNI clearance required

Please note, the successful candidate will be required to obtain AccessNI clearance prior to registration due to the nature of the project.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain

Desirable Criteria

If the University receives a large number of applicants for the project, the following desirable criteria may be applied to shortlist applicants for interview.

• Masters at 65%
• Experience using research methods or other approaches relevant to the subject domain
• Relevant professional qualification and/or a Degree in a Health or Health related area

Equal Opportunities

The University is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applicants from all sections of the community, particularly from those with disabilities.

Appointment will be made on merit.

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• Department for the Economy (DfE)

This scholarship will cover tuition fees and provide a maintenance allowance of £21,000* (tbc) per annum for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance).  A Research Training Support Grant (RTSG) of approximately £900 per annum is also available.

To be eligible for these scholarships, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a UK National, or

• Have settled status, or

• Have pre-settled status, or

• Have indefinite leave to remain or enter, or

• be an Irish National

Applicants should also meet the residency criteria which requires that they have lived in the EEA, Switzerland, the UK or Gibraltar for at least the three years preceding the start date of the research degree programme.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies.

*Part time PhD scholarships may be available, based on 0.5 of the full time rate, and will require a six year registration period