The Basics of PBRNs

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) defines a primary care practice-based research network, or PBRN, as a group of ambulatory practices devoted principally to the primary care of patients, and affiliated in their mission to investigate questions related to community-based practice and to improve the quality of primary care. PBRNs often link practicing clinicians with investigators experienced in clinical and health services research, while enhancing the research skills of the network members. Typically, PBRNs draw on the experience and insight of practicing clinicians to identify and frame research questions whose answers can improve the practice of primary care. By linking these questions with rigorous research methods, the PBRN can produce research findings that are immediately relevant to the clinician and, in theory, more easily assimilated into everyday practice.

Click HERE to be directed to the AHRQ website for general information about PBRNs.

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