RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Preventing the Voltage Drop: Keeping Practice-based Research Network (PBRN) Practices Engaged in Studies
JF The Journal of the American Board of Family
                Medicine
JO J Am Board Fam Med
FD American Board of Family Medicine
SP 123
OP 135
DO 10.3122/jabfm.2014.01.130026
VO 27
IS 1
A1 Yawn, Barbara P.
A1 Dietrich, Allen
A1 Graham, Deborah
A1 Bertram, Susan
A1 Kurland, Marge
A1 Madison, Suzanne
A1 Littlefield, Dawn
A1 Manning, Brian
A1 Smail, Craig
A1 Pace, Wilson
YR 2014
UL http://www.jabfm.org/content/27/1/123.abstract
AB Introduction: Practice-based research continues to evolve and has become a major methodology for many pragmatic studies. While early practice-based network projects were usually short term, current studies often introduce or compare practice innovations that require long-term evaluation. That change requires that practice sites remain engaged in research work for up to 5 years, a time that can allow for a significant “voltage drop,” or decline in active participation. Methods: Over the past 15 years we have developed and adapted several strategies to facilitate and encourage the continued active engagement of practices in practice-based research network studies of up to 5 years' duration. The concepts, details, evaluation, and results (when available) of the strategies are described. Results: Eight strategies that enhance practice sites' attention to enrollment, data collection and continued use of the implemented practice change are described. Conclusion: The loss of momentum, or “voltage drop,” that happens in longer-term practice-based research network studies can be addressed using multiple strategies.