ABSTRACT
The primary care perspective is unique and makes special contributions to both patient care and research. It encounters different patients and problems, in deeper contexts, across broader responsibilities and over longer periods. Primary care researchers ask different questions and answer them in different ways. The chapter aims to help the researcher choose a topic and define a research question to reach four essential goals: ask a question that is researchable; design a study that is doable; produce results that are publishable; and create a sustainable programme of inquiry. Research, like care, is a human enterprise and—at its best—should serve personal, team and community goals. Research requires balancing personal and professional goals with those of the research team, patient care team, patients and community. As the process progresses, the interests of other stakeholders, sponsors and funders deserve attention.
