Looking beyond effectiveness: Integration of social science research within international infectious disease research in primary care<subtitle>“Be a good craftsman. Let every man be his own methodologist; let theory and method again become part of the practice of a craft.” C. Wright Mills</subtitle>

Abstract

Background As researchers in primary care, we want to drive change in practice and conduct research that sparks meaningful transformation. These changes can only happen if our research work resonates in a meaningful way with the people who they are designed for, i.e. the healthcare professionals and the patients.Viewpoint This viewpoint stems from first-hand insights gained as a social scientist engaged in trials and primary care research amidst epidemics and pandemics. Some examples stemming from the EU Funded GRACE INTRO, RECOVER and Prudence trial illustrate these experiences. I outline how primary care can effectively address the pressing challenges it encounters, whether as researchers, members of the public, or healthcare professionals, and how to integrate successfully social sciences within clinical primary care research.Conclusion As interdisciplinary researchers, social scientists and medical researchers can work together under certain conditions, i.e. equal status, adequate resources, and seamless integration within trial structures.

Keywords

• Social scientists
• primary care
• trial design
• infectious diseases
• antimicrobial stewardship
• qualitative research