Regan Preston | Mental health/hepatitis C | Best Researcher Award
Regan Preston at Curtin University, Australia
Regan Preston is an experienced clinical nurse and researcher with a strong background in mental health, addiction, and hepatitis C management. Currently a PhD candidate at Curtin University, he brings a wealth of expertise in both clinical practice and academic research.
Profile
Scopus
Regan holds a Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner) from Edith Cowan University (2024) and a Master of Pharmacy from the University of Western Australia (2014). He completed a Master of Nursing Science at the University of Western Australia (2010) and a Bachelor of Science with majors in Microbiology and Psychology from Rhodes University (1991). Additionally, he has pursued several graduate certificates in clinical and pharmacy practices and is currently a PhD candidate in Nursing and Midwifery at Curtin University.
Research Focus
Regan’s research is centered on innovative approaches to hepatitis C screening and treatment, particularly among individuals with mental health issues and substance use disorders. His studies aim to improve targeted recruitment strategies and enhance educational interventions in community settings.
Professional Journey
Regan’s career spans various roles, including Clinical Nurse Specialist and Consultant, Research Officer, and Lecturer. He has worked in notable institutions such as Fiona Stanley Hospital, Royal Perth Hospital, and Fremantle Hospital, and currently serves as a sessional lecturer at Curtin University.
Honors & Awards
Regan’s achievements include multiple scholarships from the Department of Health WA, the Global Health Alliance Travel Grant, and recent recognition with the ACMHN 48th International Mental Health Nursing Conference Sponsorship Grant. He has also received a Research Training Program Internship Scholarship from Curtin University.
Publications Noted & Contributions
His research contributions include significant work on targeted hepatitis C screening and the development of a continuous care model for individuals at risk of HCV infection. Regan has co-authored several research papers and contributed to influential clinical guidelines and educational materials.
Research Timeline
Regan’s research journey includes a notable PhD project on hepatitis C screening strategies, a Masters research project on assay method development, and various quality improvement activities related to substance use and mental health in emergency settings.
Collaborations and Projects
He has collaborated on various projects, including the Cockburn Wellbeing HCV Continuous Care Program and national research grants focusing on harm reduction and intervention strategies. Regan has also participated in international conferences, contributing presentations and posters on innovations in nursing and mental
Title: Diagnostic Overshadowing of Chronic Hepatitis C in People With Mental Health Conditions Who Inject Drugs: A Scoping Review
Journal: International Journal of Mental Health Nursing
Publication Date: August 5, 2024
DOI: 10.1111/inm.13396
Authors: Regan Preston, Michael Christmass, Eric Lim, Shirley McGough, Karen Heslop
Publications
Diagnostic Overshadowing of Chronic Hepatitis C in People With Mental Health Conditions Who Inject Drugs: A Scoping Review
Strengths of the Best Researcher Award
- Innovative Research Focus
Regan Preston’s work on innovative approaches to hepatitis C screening and treatment, particularly among individuals with mental health issues and substance use disorders, positions him as a leading researcher in this niche but critical area. His focus on targeted recruitment strategies and educational interventions in community settings is highly impactful and demonstrates his commitment to addressing complex healthcare challenges. - Extensive Clinical and Academic Background
Regan’s extensive background in mental health, addiction, and hepatitis C management, combined with his academic achievements, including multiple advanced degrees, showcases his depth of knowledge and expertise. His dual role as a clinical practitioner and academic researcher enhances the practical relevance of his research. - Significant Contributions to Clinical Practice
His contributions to clinical guidelines and the development of continuous care models for at-risk populations are noteworthy. These practical applications of his research have the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes and healthcare delivery in the field of hepatitis C management. - Collaborative and Multi-Disciplinary Approach
Regan’s collaborative work on projects such as the Cockburn Wellbeing HCV Continuous Care Program and national research grants highlights his ability to work across disciplines and with various stakeholders. This collaborative approach enriches his research and amplifies its impact. - Recognition and Awards
The numerous scholarships, grants, and recognitions that Regan has received, such as the ACMHN 48th International Mental Health Nursing Conference Sponsorship Grant and the Research Training Program Internship Scholarship from Curtin University, validate his contributions to the field and reinforce his standing as a respected researcher.
Areas for Improvement
- Broader Dissemination of Research
While Regan has contributed to influential clinical guidelines and educational materials, there is potential for broader dissemination of his research findings through more frequent publications in high-impact journals and presentations at international conferences. - Interdisciplinary Integration
Expanding his research to include more interdisciplinary collaborations, particularly with public health experts, epidemiologists, and policymakers, could further enhance the impact of his work and lead to more comprehensive strategies for hepatitis C management. - Expansion of Research Scope
While Regan’s research is focused on hepatitis C screening and treatment among individuals with mental health conditions and substance use disorders, exploring related areas such as HIV co-infection, liver disease progression, or the socio-economic impacts of chronic hepatitis C could broaden the scope and relevance of his research. - Development of Longitudinal Studies
Incorporating longitudinal studies into his research agenda would allow for the assessment of long-term outcomes of the interventions and models of care he develops. This would provide valuable insights into the sustainability and effectiveness of these approaches over time. - Increased Engagement with Community Stakeholders
Strengthening engagement with community stakeholders, including patients, caregivers, and advocacy groups, could lead to more patient-centered research and the development of interventions that are better aligned with the needs and preferences of the affected populations.
Conclusion
Recognition and Future Prospects
Regan Preston’s achievements in the field of mental health, addiction, and hepatitis C management make him a strong candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His innovative research, extensive clinical background, and collaborative approach are key strengths that have significantly contributed to the advancement of knowledge and practice in these areas. However, there are opportunities for further growth, particularly in terms of broader dissemination of his work, interdisciplinary collaboration, and expansion of research scope. By addressing these areas for improvement, Regan can continue to enhance his impact on public health and contribute to the development of more effective strategies for managing hepatitis C and related conditions.