Lay Stakeholder Representatives in Science and Research

The Lay Stakeholder is a volunteer without formal training as a scientist who possesses a strong interest in advancing cardiovascular, cerebrovascular and brain health research, with a focus on overall health and well-being across the lifespan. Interest might be based on intimate experience as a survivor, family member, caregiver, or advocate.

Lay Stakeholder Engagement is Vital to AHA Science and Research

• Increases the accountability and transparency of the research process.
• Provides real-world understanding of what most impacts those affected by cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and/or disorders.
• Helps shape and influence the culture of the research agenda and strengthens its impact on the mission.
• Bridges the gap between scientists and patients to alleviate barriers in understanding the focus of why research is necessary.
• Gives voice to the issues stakeholders think are most important.
• Integrates a diverse range of views (researchers, health professionals and service-user representatives) so research becomes more effective.
• Improves understanding of the benefits and burdens of patients in research studies.
• Informs others of the human dimension of research and its outcome.
• Prompts a sense of urgency for finding cures and more effective prevention, diagnosis and treatments.

Benefits to Lay Stakeholders:

• Increased awareness and respect for the importance of the research enterprise.
• Demystify the research process for other non-scientists.
• Gain confidence in the rigor of AHA’s selection of research projects.
• Satisfaction of contributing to a cure for the prevention of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases and/or disorders.
• Awareness that real-world lay stakeholder experience can influence the direction of science.

Benefits to Scientists:

• Clearer connection between research focus and patients.
• Respect for the patient's voice.
• Broader perspective for connecting science with patients.
• Enhances more patient-centered research.
• Minimizes scientists' intellectual biases regarding patient involvement.