Health and Medical Research

Participating in research plays a vital role in advancing healthcare.

When you join a research study, you’re helping find new ways to prevent illnesses, create better treatments, and even find cures for serious health problems in our community.

At Northern Health, we care about keeping you safe above all else. Here’s what you need to know:

  • We’ll only ask you to join a research study if it’s right for you.
  • Joining a research study is your choice, and you can say no if you want. Your regular treatment won’t change either way.
  • You’ll get all the details about the study before you decide to join.
  • You can change your mind and leave the study at any time without it affecting your regular care.
  • Your privacy, rights, and well-being are always respected and protected.

If you would like to be involved in research at Northern Health, speak to your clinician in the first instance to determine if there are any projects suitable for you.

Clinical Trials

The Gift of Healing – a bespoke brochure for First Nations people 

Clinical trials can greatly benefit the health of First Nations people as they provide new and promising treatment options for a range of diseases and that they can support the improvement of health for the next generation.

Check out the new information brochure that has been developed with our local community in mind and includes bright and vibrant bespoke artwork called The Gift of Healing by renowned Victorian Indigenous artist, Dixon Bayila.

Our healing experiences can sometimes feel isolating and lonely. This art reminds us that we are part of a community with an abundance of strength and resilience. Our journeys are guided by such deep cultural and spiritual connection to our country’s and each other and that taking ownership of our healing is a powerful gift we give ourselves and our communities.

See the brochure and learn more here.

Consumers and Research

To find out more information about consumer involvement in research, please follow this link

Research Complaints or feedback

Concerns or complaints about the conduct of human research projects at Northern Health are rare.

However, when they arise, they are often concerns that can be quickly and effectively resolved to everyone’s satisfaction.

If you have any clinical questions or concerns, please contact your Principal Investigator/Study Coordinator as listed on the Participant Information and Consent Form (PICF).

If you are dissatisfied with any aspect of your involvement in the research project please contact the Research Development and Governance Unit (RDGU): ResearchDGU@nh.org.au or phone (03) 8405 2918.