The RCGP Research and Surveillance Centre (RSC) is an internationally renowned source of information, analysis and interpretation of primary care data. Established in 1957, the RSC is an active research and surveillance unit that collects and monitors data, in particular influenza, from over 500 practices across England.
In 2017 the RSC celebrated 50 years of weekly influenza surveillance and reporting, a landmark anniversary. The dataset is nationally representative, having only small differences with the national population, which have now been quantified and can be assessed for clinical relevance for specific studies. With twice weekly data extractions, the dataset is one of the most up to date in the UK.
How to join the RSC Network
The RCGP RSC is currently recruiting practices to join the network. For more information on the benefits of being part of the network and how to join, please contact MedicalDirectorRSC@rcgp.org.uk
All GPs can participate in the network, regardless of membership to the RCGP. The core surveillance and vaccine effectiveness work is mainly funded by Public Health England, with other research and surveillance conducted in collaboration with a range of organisations, some working across Europe. All practices in the network have the opportunity to participate in new projects, and some work includes payment to cover practice time.
RCGP RSC practice members have access to personalised dashboard, which shows an aggregated version of their data by week and compared with the rest of the network. The dashboard can be accessed here.
The Centre is keen to hear about new opportunities for collaboration. To work with us, please download and complete our
data request form [Word] and send it to
MedicalDirectorRSC@rcgp.org.uk
RCGP RSC Annual Report and Publications
The Centre publishes an annual report, which summarises the trends of communicable and respiratory diseases for the past year in England. Approximately 200 volunteer practices provide data to make this possible.
An article published in the BJGP demonstrates the scope of data by describing disparities in the presentation of six common conditions included in the report.
Weekly Reports
The Centre publishes weekly reports on communicable and respiratory diseases in England. These include data broken down by region for incidences of influenza-like illness and other respiratory diseases, as well as information on environmentally sensitive and water and food-borne disorders.
If you would like to receive an email of the weekly results, please contact
RCGP Workload Observatory
This is our first iteration of our Workload Observatory (WLO) focusing on seasonal illness.
Further information