Alice Minhinnick
Advances in molecular testing are helping us to approach cancer more precisely than ever before. But these tests can be high cost, so how do we decide which ones are worth investing in? That's the question at the heart of Alice Minhinnick's doctoral research.
Aside from brief flirtations with the idea of becoming a weather reporter or a test-kitchen chef, Alice has always felt the pull towards healthcare. “Becoming a doctor was a natural fit for me” she says.
As an oncologist, caring for people with cancer inspired her to pursue ways of improving patient care beyond the clinic.
“I'm interested in research that informs health policy, especially when policy has a tangible impact on the care we provide and our ability to achieve equitable cancer outcomes.”
Her doctoral studies explore what New Zealanders consider value-for-money in tests on genes and proteins in cancer, and how that information can help guide funding decisions.
"Healthcare resources are limited, so we can't fund everything. That means making difficult decisions about which tests and treatments provide the most value.
"My clinical brain is hard-wired to be solutions-focused and grounded in evidence. Through my doctoral research, I've had to think more deeply about how evidence is generated, including whether we're asking the right questions to begin with.”
Alice says the most rewarding part of her doctoral research has been learning from people with a wide range of perspectives.
“Health economics, health services research, clinical and Māori academic colleagues, and of course the research participants, have challenged my clinical perspective to expand my understanding of what defines value."
Doctoral study contrasts with and complements clinical work. We're surrounded by unanswered questions in the clinic, with plenty of doctoral theses in waiting!