Discussion
Years of thought and planning preceded this trial. Key
individuals were sequentially brought together to
achieve specific aims. Eventually, a small but diverse
core team was formed to help successfully deliver
HEAT-PPCI. The team comprised an interventional
cardiologist, a specialist registrar, a foundation year
doctor, two research nurses and an administrator.
A full-time patient ambassador was also integral to the
team. A former patient himself (although not a HEATPPCI
patient), his contributions were valued and insightful.
His advocacy helped ensure that patients’ interests
remained paramount. Trained to fully participate in all
aspects of the trial, he had a particularly helpful role in the
development of patient information and correspondence.
Decision-making was consistently collaborative, with each
member of the team offering differing perspectives, both
ad hoc and at weekly team meetings.