Developing a Healthcare Research Proposal

University of Hertfordshire

The guide, authored by Maxine Offredy and Peter Vickers of the University of Hertfordshire, introduces the full research cycle from identifying a problem to drafting a proposal. It emphasizes ethical issues such as informed consent, confidentiality, and participant withdrawal, especially in palliative‑care contexts. Detailed sections cover both qualitative (e.g., grounded theory, structured interviews) and quantitative methods (e.g., sampling strategies, statistical tests). Practical tools such as checklists, sample consent forms, and data‑analysis frameworks are provided to aid students in producing a robust proposal. The text also discusses the hierarchy of evidence and the role of systematic reviews in strengthening research design.