Patients are being asked to share their experiences of taking part in clinical research studies.

Scotland’s chief scientist office (CSO) is seeking views from members of the public who have taken part in health research studies.

Scotland has 28 research networks which cover specific areas, such as diabetes, stroke and cancer.

The survey explores questions such as whether it makes sense to have networks for different diseases.

With most research based in hospitals and universities in the largest cities, it asks how people who live away from main centres in Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh and Glasgow can be included.

Views are being sought on whether people are aware they can take part in research in the NHS.

The responses from the survey, which closes on 23 January, will be used to help inform a review panel advising the CSO on future options, with the aim of delivering a “comprehensive and supportive experience to those taking part in future clinical trials”.

Nearly 275,000 people have registered with the Scottish Health Research Register, a project between the NHS, government and universities in Scotland to develop a bank of people who are interested in helping with medical research.