New training resources launched to support use of health data in clinical trials

Researchers from Cardiff University’s Centre for Trials Research are helping trial teams across the UK unlock the power of patient health data with a new series of free online training modules.

Launched through the HDR UK Futures platform, the TOP-CAT (Transforming Outcomes through the use of health data in Clinical triAls Training) project provides practical, accessible resources to support researchers, data managers, statisticians and public contributors working on trials that use routinely collected healthcare data.

Routine healthcare data refers to information captured as part of everyday clinical care - such as hospital records, GP visits, prescriptions, and diagnostic test results. When used securely and responsibly, this data has the potential to make trials faster, more efficient, and potentially more inclusive.

Making the most of this type of data requires new ways of thinking, working, and collaborating. That’s why the TOP-CAT resources have been designed to demystify the process, build confidence, and offer clear guidance for everyone involved in trials - from statisticians and data managers to clinical staff and public contributors. By making these training resources freely available, the project aims to help teams across the UK embed routine data use into more trials, more confidently.

Two in-depth modules and three bite-sized videos are already live, covering topics ranging from data utility to the importance of public trust in data-enabled trials. Additional content will follow later this year as the team continues to develop and respond to sector needs.

Designed with input from experienced trialists and public contributors, the resources aim to build understanding across all roles involved in trials, not just technical staff. Each module can be used as a standalone training resource or integrated into existing development programmes within research teams.

Topics currently available include:

• Introduction to healthcare systems data – explaining key concepts and why this data matters.
• Data utility comparison studies (DUCkS) – exploring methods for comparing trial and routine datasets to test which types of routinely collected data are fit for purpose in supplementing or replacing trial-collected outcomes
• Public trust and underserved groups – strategies for ethical, inclusive public engagement in data-enabled trials

To access the training modules and videos, visit the HDR UK Futures platform.

The Centre for Trials Research at Cardiff University is a UKCRC registered clinical trials unit funded by Welsh Government through Health and Care Research Wales. TOP-CAT is part of the HDR UK funded Transforming Data for Trials programme.