Collaborative Evaluation of Primary Care Research Projects: A Winning Approach?
Çiğdem DELICE SEZGIN and Vildan MEVSIM
The Réseau de recherche en soins primaires de l’Université de Montréal (RRSPUM) is a research network created to strengthen collaboration between researchers and the 21 university family medicine groups (GMFUs) to produce knowledge applicable to primary care. However, projects submitted to GMFUs are not always feasible within their clinical realities or aligned with their priorities. To address this issue, the RRSPUM sought to develop a structured tool to better assess the relevance and feasibility of proposed projects.To describe (1) the process used to develop an assessment grid for evaluating the relevance and feasibility of research projects submitted to GMFUs, and (2) the lessons learned from consulting partner researchers to refine this grid.Building on scientific literature and field experience, two research facilitators and one patient partner jointly developed an initial version of the grid. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine researchers to collect their perspectives, assess the clarity and utility of the tool, and identify improvements. Their feedback was analyzed and integrated into a revised version of the grid, which was then presented to GMFU representatives for validation.Researchers endorsed the overall content and structure of the grid and confirmed its relevance for guiding project submissions. They suggested shifting from an approval/rejection mechanism to a collaborative evaluation process conducted with the researchers of each project. This approach emphasizes co-construction rather than gatekeeping and allows the RRSPUM to support teams in adapting protocols to GMFU operational constraints and workflows.The participatory nature of the process fostered a deeper mutual understanding between clinical teams and academic researchers. It also highlighted the importance of early dialogue to optimize project design, promote feasibility, and ensure alignment with GMFU priorities and capacities. GMFU representatives expressed a positive reception to the revised grid and recognized its potential for improving the relevance and applicability of projects submitted to their sites.The development of this assessment grid illustrates the benefits of integrating collaborative practices into the evaluation phase of research. By structuring expectations and facilitating constructive exchanges, this approach strengthens partnerships and enhances the relevance, feasibility, and overall impact of research conducted in primary care settings.
