9th November 1998

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New approaches to the treatment of chronic illness and disease are the expected outcomes of a new partnership agreement signed today, Thursday 12 November 1998.

The highly rated research teams in Biomedical Sciences and Nursing at the University of Ulster have teamed up with staff in the Altnagelvin Hospitals Health and Social Services Trust carry out research and examine nursing practice issues in a number of critical areas.

The announcement is the latest milestone in a highly successful relationship between the University and Altnagelvin Trust. Current research projects involving University staff and Trust clinicians include investigations into stroke rehabilitation, cancer, diabetics and nutrition, and treatment of wounds.

Mrs Stella Burnside, Chief Executive of the Altnagelvin Hospitals Health and Social Services Trust said:

"We have had a long standing association with the University of Ulster, facilitating the education of Trust staff and the placement of students training in health and biomedical sciences. Our agreement today marks the extension our relationship into further fields of practice development and research. We are particularly excited about the potential for joint research in areas associated with chronic illness and disability.

"I consider that this partnership will undoubtedly enhance the reputation of both institutions and provide further evidence of the role that clinical and academic staff play in the provision of evidence based health care and clinical effectiveness to the citizens of Northern Ireland."

The Trust currently provides clinical placements for University students in nursing, physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, biomedical scientists and other clinical disciplines

Professor Gerry McKenna, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Research) at the University said:

"We are delighted with the formalisation of this relationship. We believe that there will be enhanced opportunities for research and practice development for Hospital and University staff as well as enhanced quality of practice education for students through relevant placement in Hospital clinical departments.

"Furthermore we believe that this collaboration will have an impact on the quality of patient care for people in the west of the province through the provision of research-based evidence to inform clinical decisions and activities."

Professor McKenna and Mrs Stella Burnside signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 12 November which will encourage joint collaboration in research and practice development between the two institutions. A series of joint ventures are under discussion and these include a project to investigate the vital interface between hospital and community care.

The University's biomedical science research team is rated as the best in the UK whilst its nursing research is amongst the best in the UK and without equal in Northern Ireland. Altnagelvin Trust provides the most comprehensive range of hospital services in Northern Ireland. It has been designated as a regional Cancer Unit by the DHSS and it is developing a leading role in the education of students in medicine, nursing, PAMs and other clinical professions, and is recognized as a major provincial teaching hospital.

For further information, please contact:

Press Office Department of Communication and Development
Telephone: 028 9036 6178
Email: pressoffice@ulster.ac.uk