Connecting and Collaborating: Developing National Dental PBRN Study Concepts Through POD Engagement

Area of Science:

• Dental Research
• Health Services Research
• Collaborative Science

Background:

• The National Dental Practice-Based Research Network (National Dental PBRN) aims to improve dental care.
• Collaboration between practitioners and researchers is key to developing relevant studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate the process of fostering collaboration for study concept development using protocol development groups (PODs).
• To demonstrate how the Southwest Region engages PODs comprising dentists, hygienists, and faculty to improve dental care.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Tuckman's four-stage model of group development (forming, storming, norming, performing) within PODs.
• Southwest Region Directors guided POD development, aligning member interests with National Network goals.

Main Results:

• POD engagement successfully developed study concepts for the National Network.
• Between 2012-2014, 14 PODs were developed from 275 research ideas.
• Five study concepts were submitted for approval, including the Novel Tobacco Products POD.

Conclusions:

• The POD concept effectively unites practitioners and academicians through shared research interests.
• PODs leverage participant expertise to generate innovative study ideas for the National Dental PBRN.