Annotated Bibliography on Practice-Based Research Networks (PBRNs) in North America

1. Fagnan, L. J., Davis, M., Deyo, R. A., Werner, J. J., & Stange, K. C. (2010). Linking practice-based research networks and clinical and translational science awards: new opportunities for community engagement by academic health centers. Academic Medicine, 85(3), 476-483.

Annotation:

This paper discusses the integration of PBRNs with Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSAs) to enhance community engagement in research. The authors argue that linking PBRNs with CTSAs can bridge gaps between academic research and community practice, facilitating more relevant and impactful health research. This connection not only enhances the research capacity of PBRNs but also aligns their activities with national health priorities. The paper is a significant contribution to understanding how PBRNs can be leveraged to foster community-engaged research within academic health centers.

2. Green, L. A., & Hickner, J. (2006). A short history of primary care practice-based research networks: From concept to essential research laboratories. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, 19(1), 1-10.

Annotation:

Green and Hickner provide a historical overview of PBRNs, detailing their evolution from a conceptual framework to becoming essential research laboratories for primary care. The paper emphasizes the role of PBRNs in generating evidence that is directly applicable to clinical practice, particularly in real-world settings. The authors highlight the unique contributions of PBRNs to the primary care research landscape, including their ability to conduct studies that are relevant to the needs of everyday clinical practice. This work is foundational for understanding the development and significance of PBRNs in North America.

3. Mold, J. W., & Peterson, K. A. (2005). Primary care practice-based research networks: working at the interface between research and quality improvement. Annals of Family Medicine, 3(Suppl 1), S12-S20.

Annotation:

This paper explores the dual role of PBRNs in conducting research and driving quality improvement in primary care settings. Mold and Peterson argue that PBRNs are uniquely positioned to integrate research findings into clinical practice, thus improving the quality of care provided to patients. The paper discusses various strategies for sustaining PBRNs, including the importance of leadership, collaboration, and funding. This article is particularly useful for understanding how PBRNs operate at the intersection of research and practice, contributing to both scientific knowledge and the enhancement of healthcare quality.

4. Nutting, P. A., Beasley, J. W., Werner, J. J., & Stange, K. C. (2009). Practice-based research networks answer primary care questions. Journal of the American Medical Association, 301(11), 1114-1116.

Annotation:

Nutting et al. focus on the role of PBRNs in answering key questions in primary care through practice-based research. The paper discusses the types of research questions that PBRNs are well-suited to address and the methodologies they employ. The authors highlight the importance of PBRNs in filling gaps in primary care research, particularly in areas that are underexplored by traditional research methods. This article is essential for understanding how PBRNs contribute to evidence-based practice in primary care.

5. Peterson, K. A., Lipman, P. D., & Lange, C. J. (2012). Building the infrastructure to improve the quality of care: practice-based research networks (PBRNs) in the United States. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, 25(5), 565-571.

Annotation:

This article examines the infrastructural needs of PBRNs to improve the quality of care in the United States. Peterson and colleagues discuss the critical components of a successful PBRN infrastructure, including data management systems, administrative support, and sustainable funding models. The paper provides insights into the challenges faced by PBRNs in maintaining robust research activities and offers recommendations for building and sustaining these networks. This work is valuable for anyone looking to understand the practical aspects of establishing and maintaining a PBRN.

6. Williams, R. L., Rhyne, R. L., & Fink, R. L. (2010). Sustainable practice-based research networks: the lifeblood of primary care research. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, 23(4), 432-438.

Annotation:

Williams et al. explore the sustainability of PBRNs, identifying them as the "lifeblood" of primary care research. The paper discusses the factors that contribute to the long-term viability of PBRNs, such as securing diverse funding sources, fostering institutional support, and ensuring that research activities align with the needs of primary care providers. The authors also emphasize the importance of integrating PBRNs into broader healthcare initiatives to enhance their impact and sustainability. This article is essential for understanding the challenges and strategies associated with sustaining PBRNs over time.

7. Westfall, J. M., Mold, J., & Fagnan, L. (2007). Practice-based research—“Blue highways” on the NIH roadmap. Journal of the American Medical Association, 297(4), 403-406.

Annotation:

This seminal paper introduces the concept of PBRNs as the "blue highways" on the National Institutes of Health (NIH) roadmap, emphasizing their role in translating research into practice. Westfall, Mold, and Fagnan argue that PBRNs provide a critical pathway for disseminating and implementing research findings in real-world clinical settings. The paper advocates for increased recognition and support of PBRNs within the NIH framework, highlighting their potential to bridge the gap between research and practice. This article is a key reference for understanding the strategic importance of PBRNs in the broader context of health research and policy.

8. Pace, W. D., Fagnan, L. J., & West, D. R. (2011). The evolving role of practice-based research networks in facilitating translational research. Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine, 24(5), 489-492.

Annotation:

This paper discusses the evolving role of PBRNs in facilitating translational research, which involves turning scientific discoveries into practical applications in healthcare. Pace and colleagues highlight the ways in which PBRNs are uniquely equipped to bridge the gap between bench research and bedside practice. The paper also explores the challenges PBRNs face in this role, including the need for robust infrastructure and sustainable funding. This article is valuable for understanding how PBRNs contribute to the translation of research into practice.

9. Tierney, W. M., Oppenheimer, C. C., Hudson, B. L., Benz, J., Finn, A., Hickner, J. M., ... & Smith, M. A. (2007). A national survey of primary care practice-based research networks. Annals of Family Medicine, 5(3), 242-250.

Annotation:

Tierney et al. conducted a national survey of PBRNs to assess their characteristics, challenges, and successes. The study provides a comprehensive overview of the state of PBRNs across the United States, including information on their organizational structures, research activities, and funding sources. The paper also identifies key barriers to PBRN sustainability, such as funding instability and administrative burden. This article is a crucial resource for understanding the landscape of PBRNs in the U.S. and the factors that influence their success.

10. Green, L. A., White, L. L., Barry, H. C., Nease, D. E., & Hudson, B. L. (2005). Infrastructure requirements for practice-based research networks. The Annals of Family Medicine, 3(Suppl 1), S5-S11.

Annotation:

This paper outlines the infrastructure requirements for establishing and maintaining effective PBRNs. Green and colleagues discuss the essential components of a PBRN infrastructure, including data management, communication systems, and administrative support. The authors also emphasize the importance of securing stable funding and fostering collaborative relationships with academic and community partners. This work is particularly useful for those involved in the planning and development of PBRNs, offering practical guidance on building the necessary infrastructure for successful research activities.

This annotated bibliography provides a comprehensive overview of key literature on Practice-Based Research Networks in North America, highlighting their evolution, challenges, and contributions to primary care research. Each entry is selected for its relevance to understanding the development, operation, and impact of PBRNs, offering insights into their role in bridging the gap between research and clinical practice.