NHS Norfolk and Waveney has recruited more NHS patients into research than any other Primary Care Trust in England.

Research helps the NHS to identify and provide the best possible care, and can involve questionnaires, speaking researchers, letting a researcher look at medical notes or trying a new treatment or drug. Taking part in research is voluntary and participants can change their mind at any time.

Latest figures show that 4,399 patients were recruited into research studies across Norfolk and Waveney during 2010/2011.

Currently at least 50 practices are regularly hosting research studies.

Heather Leishman, Primary Care Research Network co-ordinator for NHS Norfolk and Waveney, said: 'These figures are indicative of the huge amount of work undertaken by GPs and their practice teams to get these studies running.'

She added: 'The PCRN would particularly like to thank the people of Norfolk and Waveney for their willingness to help with research projects. Their interest and dedication will lead to better healthcare evidence in the future which leads to improved services and medicines for all.'

More information is available at www.norfolk.nhs.uk/research.