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Establishing a rural family practice research network
H A Williamson1, M G Hector, M LeFevre
1Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Missouri-Columbia 65212.
Family Medicine
|January 1, 1988
Summary
Establishing smaller collaborative networks of rural family practices can effectively address primary care knowledge gaps. This approach is practical for collecting valuable clinical data and advancing medical research.
Area of Science:
- Primary Care Research
- Health Services Research
- Rural Health
Background:
- A significant gap exists in the primary care knowledge base.
- Previous large-scale practice networks have faced challenges in establishment and management.
- Smaller networks may offer a more feasible alternative for specific research questions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the development and implementation of a research network composed of rural family practices.
- To assess the feasibility and value of a smaller collaborative network for primary care research.
- To share lessons learned for establishing and managing similar research consortiums.
Main Methods:
- Formation of a research network involving four rural family practices and study coordinators.
- Systematic selection of research topics and design of study methodologies.
- Securing funding and collecting data through collaborative efforts.
Main Results:
- Successfully established a functional research network.
- Identified and addressed logistical challenges through structured communication.
- Collected valuable data relevant to primary care.
Conclusions:
- Collaborative research in primary care is practical and feasible.
- Smaller networks can overcome logistical hurdles with careful planning and communication.
- This model contributes valuable knowledge to the primary care field and can be rewarding for participants.