What was the main purpose of the PRIME-Parkinson UK RCT?
This randomised controlled trial (RCT) aimed to find out whether a new model of care, termed “PRIME Parkinson Care” was helpful for people living with Parkinson’s. We set out to do this by comparing usual care provided by the NHS against usual NHS care together with PRIME Parkinson Care.
The PRIME Parkinson Care model
The PRIME Parkinson care model was designed to:
- Deliver integrated care
- Manage issues early and proactively
- Facilitate access to specialised healthcare professionals
- Educate and empower individuals with Parkinson’s and their carers
- Organise care close to home
- Deliver personalised care
Why was the trial important?
Although many different care providers play a role in supporting people with Parkinson’s, the collaboration between providers can be fragmented. Patients can struggle to access the right services at the right time to tackle what can be very troublesome and debilitating symptoms of the condition. This project aims to bridge that gap by developing and evaluating a new model of proactive and integrated care that addresses an individual’s specific needs.
How did the trial work?
People taking part in the trial were randomly allocated into one of two groups. Group A participants received exactly the same care as they would if they were not in the trial. Group B participants continued to receive their usual care from their Parkinson’s team but were also able to access all aspects of PRIME Parkinson Care. Both groups were asked to complete questionnaires and speak to our researchers on a regular basis.
Where did the trial take place?
PRIME Parkinson UK recruited a total of 214 people with Parkinsonism, along with many of their caregivers, who live in the catchment areas of the Royal United Hospitals, Bath.
What stage of the trial is taking place now?
The research team completed data collection for the trial in July 2025, and have been busy analysing the data to see what it tells us. We hope to publish the results soon.