Practice-based research: opportunities and obstacles.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric research
• Health services research
• Clinical research methodology

Background:

• Growing recognition of hospital-based research limitations.
• Practice-based pediatric research enhances study scope, natural history, and controls.
• Patient registries can advance cohort, incidence, and health services research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the activities and experiences of the Chicago area Pediatric Practice Research Group.
• To share insights into the characteristics and feasibility of practice-based research.
• To foster an exchange of ideas among those interested in practice-based research.

Main Methods:

• The Chicago area Pediatric Practice Research Group, a consortium of 81 practitioners in 27 practices, was formed in 1984.
• The group has undertaken six studies, often with external funding.
• Analysis of unifying characteristics and feasibility of practice-based research.

Main Results:

• Practice-based research requires tailoring protocols to practice routines and involves critical roles for office staff.
• Specific study features can be identified to minimize disruption to office functioning.
• High-quality, reproducible data can be obtained from geographically dispersed collection sites.

Conclusions:

• Practice-based pediatric research is feasible and yields high-quality data.
• Adaptation of research protocols and engagement of office staff are key to successful implementation.
• This experience provides valuable lessons for developing future practice-based research initiatives.