[Participatory research in Germany - quo vadis?]

Abstract

Goal: Participatory Health Research (PHR) approaches are becoming more common in Germany. In this paper, appropriate support strategies for the funding and implementation of PHR projects in Germany are described.

Method: Nine strategies are discussed, based on the research experience of the German Network for Participatory Health Research (PartNet) and other international networks.

Results: In order to foster PHR in Germany, 1) funds have to be available for those participating in the research process, and 2) for the participatory processes themselves; 3) the requirement to promote participation should be incorporated routinely in tender notices, as well as 4) in special funding programs as a funding requirement; 5) participation in research projects should be part of a formative evaluation; 6) methodology development in this field needs specific funding; 7) review processes for research bids need to be adapted to take into account the specifics of PHR; 8) coordination needs to be established across participatory research projects; 9) and successful models and examples of participation in research should be disseminated.

Conclusion: It is necessary to adapt research funding programs in Germany to the specific requirements of PHR so as to promote meaningful participation on the part of non-academic partners and to avoid tokenism.