Is my study research?

Welcome. The aim of this decision tool is to help you decide whether or not your study is research as defined by the UK Policy Framework for Health and Social Care Research.
It is based on the Defining Research table produced by the Research Ethics Service.

You will be presented with a short series of YES or NOquestions. Take your time to consider the wording carefully. Once you have answered these questions the tool will let you know if your study is research.

To help you with terminology, a GLOSSARY button is available on every page. All links to individual glossary items or other websites appear in purple text and open in a new window.

Post Market Surveillance is NOT usually considered research. However, there are some circumstances where NHS REC review may be required. Return to the Do I need NHS REC review? tool to determine if your post market surveillance requires NHS REC review.

Follow this link to begin.