CERTAIN projects and programs depend on the input of stakeholders who will use evidence and results generated by CERTAIN to inform healthcare decisions. CERTAIN partners with a variety of different stakeholders, including patients, physicians, payers, and policymakers. The CERTAIN Patient Advisory Network involves patients, caregivers, and family members who are interested in being part of helping doctors and scientists make research better and more useful to patients.
Mary Scott became involved in the CERTAIN Patient Advisory Network in October 2012. Since starting her work as a Patient Advisor, Mary has been an active contributor to CERTAIN. She attended our first 2 Patient Advisory Network meetings, contributed to the PAD Study by providing input on study documents aimed at patients, and worked with CERTAIN Patient Voices Project Senior Researcher Dr. Danielle Lavallee on a new funding proposal to the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) entitled, Comparing Engagement Techniques for Incorporating Patient Input in Research Prioritization. In this project, she helped conceptualize study operations, particularly in providing insight on how to best engage patients to provide input on research priorities. She also assisted in drafting patient materials for the proposal. Mary’s interest in being involved in the CERTAIN Patient Advisory Network stems from her desire to make a difference in the lives of people. She also harbors a great interest in the medical field and enjoys learning about and contributing to work to advance health. Most significantly, Mary partners with CERTAIN as a way to honor her daughter who recently passed away. Her daughter, an OB-GYN physician, was passionate about her work and active in the research community. In her spare time, Mary serves as the Editor of the Ellensburg, WA, city newsletter, "Town Talk."
CERTAIN values the input of all patients and is always looking for new Patient Advisors to provide their perspectives. Would you be interested in partnering with us, or do you know someone who would be a great Patient Advisor? Contact us to let us know - we would love to speak with you!