Bayside Health Service recently celebrated the work of frontline clinicians' conducting research at its 2025 Research Symposium.

Keynote speaker Professor Jed Duff said no one understood patient care challenges better than those on the frontline.

“By using real-world insights and available data, clinicians can drive practical research that closes the gap between evidence and practice faster than ever before,” he said. “Research is central to improving the quality and safety of care.

“Every improvement, from safer surgeries to better pain management, has stemmed from research.

“Clinician-led research happens right here on the wards and in our clinics. We focus on real issues, such as preventing infections or enhancing communication, and test solutions that can be applied immediately.

“This leads to fewer complications, quicker recoveries, and improved experiences for patients and their families.”

Prof Duff acknowledged that time and resources remained the biggest challenges to conducting research in busy hospitals.

“We overcome these barriers through teamwork, bringing clinicians, researchers, and patients together to make research part of everyday care.”

He said empowering nurses and frontline staff to be part of research ensured the outcomes were meaningful and sustainable.

“Frontline staff have valuable insights into delivering care. When they lead research, the results are practical, meaningful, and more likely to improve patient outcomes.”