A model for the electronic support of practice-based research networks

Area of Science:

• Health Informatics
• Clinical Research Infrastructure
• Practice-Based Research Networks (PBRNs)

Background:

• Practice-based research networks (PBRNs) are crucial for primary care research.
• Developing robust electronic infrastructure is essential for expanding PBRN research capabilities.
• Existing PBRN models require enhancement to support complex clinical research activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an electronic infrastructure model for primary care practice-based research networks (PBRNs).
• To enhance the growth and expand the reach of PBRN research activities.
• To facilitate translational research within primary care settings.

Main Methods:

• Utilized interviews with key informants from 11 PBRNs in the US and UK.
• Developed use cases and activity diagrams to identify discrete functions.
• Created interaction and composite diagrams to define software behavior, followed by pilot testing.

Main Results:

• An information architecture was developed to support essential interactions and data flows for PBRN translational research.
• The model facilitates research information exchange between investigators and data sites.
• Designed to support clinical trial recruitment, anonymous data collection, and identifiable data retrieval.

Conclusions:

• The proposed model advances understanding of PBRN roles and activities in translational research.
• Defines information exchange crucial for engaging community clinicians in research.
• Provides a foundation for developing electronic support for PBRN research activities using software development language.