A Centralized Survey Model for Clinician Engagement in Practice-Based Research Networks (PBRNs)

Practice-Based Research Networks (PBRNs) facilitate important clinical research by connecting primary care clinicians with research opportunities. The West Virginia Practice-Based Research Network (WVPBRN), supported by the West Virginia Clinical and Translational Science Institute (WVCTSI), developed the Collective Outcomes Research Engagement (CORE) Survey to reduce barriers and support clinician participation in research.

The CORE Survey is an annual, centralized tool that combines investigator-driven questions into a single survey, aimed at reducing survey fatigue while supporting relevant research. Proposals are reviewed and selected based on relevance to primary care, feasibility, and alignment with WVPBRN priorities. The survey is distributed through the WVPBRN listserv using a snowball sampling approach. Investigators receive their results within 30 days to support analysis, dissemination, and grant development, with analytic support provided by network staff.

From 2018 to 2023, the CORE Survey received 39 proposals, with 21 selected for inclusion. Resulting outputs include 4 peer-reviewed publications, 1 policy change, multiple local and national presentations, and data used in successful grant submissions. Response levels have remained stable, with 68 respondents in 2023.

The CORE Survey has become a sustainable and reproducible part of WVPBRN infrastructure that supports clinician-driven research across West Virginia. While research outputs vary year to year, the process has maintained steady engagement and contributed to a growing pipeline of scholarly activity. This model may benefit other PBRNs seeking to strengthen research participation in rural primary care.