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Researchers at the University of Leicester are inviting colleagues to take part in a national Delphi study focused on improving the design and delivery of clinical trials for people living with Multiple Long Term Conditions.
The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Research for Patient Benefit programme (RfPB) and is led by Laura Gray, Professor of Medical Statistics in the Division of Public Health and Epidemiology at the University of Leicester.
Clinical trials involving people with multiple long term conditions present significant methodological challenges. These include patient heterogeneity, variation in how conditions are selected, and limitations in trial design, conduct, and analysis. Together, these issues may contribute to the limited evidence currently available to guide effective interventions for this population.
In response to national and global research priorities, the study aims to identify and prioritise the key methodological uncertainties that need to be addressed to strengthen the quality and impact of future MLTC trials.
About the study
The project will use a four round modified Delphi approach, bringing together a wide range of perspectives. Participants may include methodologists, trialists, MLTC researchers, research funders, commissioners, regulators, and people with lived experience of multiple long term conditions or their carers.
Participants can contribute to one or more rounds of the study. No special preparation is required.
Round one recruitment now open
The research team is currently recruiting participants for round one, which focuses on generating items. In this stage, participants are invited to share their views on methodological uncertainties or challenges encountered when designing or running clinical trials involving people with multiple long term conditions.
Round one will be delivered through an online survey platform.
Participants should note that:
- The survey is self paced and responses can be saved and completed later
- The total time commitment is up to 30 minutes
- Participation is voluntary and responses will be kept confidential
- The survey will close on 28 February 2026
Further information
Study materials are available to support participation, including:
How to take part
Those interested in participating can follow the study link to provide informed consent and begin the survey.
With permission, contributors may be acknowledged in any resulting publications.
For further information or questions, please contact:
Ayat Ahmadi
Lead Researcher
Email: aa1605@leicester.ac.uk
