Article Figures & Data
Figures
Tables
The Article in Brief
Kevin A. Peterson , and colleagues
Background This study describes a new model of electronic infrastructure to support clinical research in primary care practice-based research networks (PBRNs) in order to foster growth and expand the reach of PBRN research. This article describes a novel architecture and model of supporting PBRN research through information technology that builds upon approaches employed in existing clinical trials management systems, but it adapts these approaches and solutions to the unique features of PBRN research
What This Study Found The model includes an information architecture that provides for essential interactions, activities, data flows, and structural elements to support PBRN translational research activities. The model enables information exchange between investigators and clusters of independent practices supported by networked administrative coordinators for research purposes. It is designed to be used in recruitment for clinical trials, collection of aggregated anonymous data, and retrieval of identifiable data from subjects across hundreds of practices.
Implications
- The proposed model provides an important foundation for the development of software supporting PBRN research activities.