Behavioural and prevalence studies:
The team at N.R.A. are experienced researchers in the field of drug use behaviours and infection surveillance. Indeed, many of the team began their research careers in this area of interest. We are experts in the recruitment of injecting drug users both in street sites and in treatment centres and have experience of recruitment in both urban and rural areas. We also have experience in a variety of strategies to make our recruitment as effective as possible: from multi-site sampling to covert snowballing techniques.
We endeavour to ensure that the research project remains in your control. We believe that it is vitally important that the client remains involved throughout the research design phase.
Once the key aims of the study have been set, the appropriate methodology and instruments can be agreed, along with strategic considerations, project management and time. Laboratory testing and associated logistical problems would also be agreed before commencement of the study. A dedicated interview schedule or questionnaire would then be designed to meet the requirements of the research project. Our interview schedules and structured questionnaires are conducted face-to-face by trained interviewers and include questions on demographic characteristics, drug use patterns, risk behaviours such as sexual behaviour and needle and syringe sharing. They also contains questions related to the perceived treatment needs of respondents. At the end of the interview, if required, saliva samples are taken in order to be tested for HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C antibodies.
The client organisation is kept involved throughout the design period and is regularly informed of fieldwork progress through interim reports submitted monthly. NRA also conduct qualitative studies with taped one to one interviews and the use of focus groups if requested. Our final report presents a detailed analysis of all the data obtained.
Health Authorities and other organisations might also wish to examine the effectiveness of their services. Please click below for more information.
Update: 1.1 (November 08, 2006)
