This publication showcases the global impact of research conducted by UK medical schools, as submitted to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021. It highlights how medical school research has improved clinical practice, reduced healthcare costs, influenced policy, and contributed to global health. The case studies demonstrate the value of sustained investment in medical research and the importance of collaboration between academia, healthcare, and industry.
Summary
This publication presents research impact across four key areas:
- improving clinical practice
- reducing the cost of healthcare
- driving policy change
- health beyond borders
Key findings
- UK medical schools have led breakthroughs in diagnostics, treatments, and surgical techniques, including robotic surgery, asthma therapies, and cardiac care.
- Research has reduced healthcare costs through more efficient treatments, such as shorter radiotherapy courses and improved antibiotic prescribing.
- Policy has been shaped by evidence on second-hand smoke, mental health, frailty, and infectious disease modelling.
- Global health has benefited from UK-led initiatives tackling diseases like rotavirus, pneumonia, podoconiosis, and vision loss in low-resource settings.
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