Practice-based Research Networks

Primary care Practice-based Research Networks (PBRNs) involve practicing primary care clinicians in asking and answering clinical and organizational questions central to primary healthcare. AHRQ values the work of PBRNs that improves the health of all Americans by engaging clinicians in quality improvement activities and building an evidence-based culture in primary care practice. 

AHRQ was designated in 1999 by Congress to "serve as the principal source of funding for primary care research in the Department of Health and Human Services".¹ As part of its charge, AHRQ has devoted funds to support the work of primary care practice-based research networks (PBRNs). These are defined as a group of ambulatory practices devoted principally to the primary care of patients. Typically, PBRNs draw on the experience and insight of practicing clinicians to identify and frame research questions whose answers can improve the practice of primary care. By linking these questions with rigorous research methods, the PBRN can produce research findings that are immediately relevant to the clinician and, in theory, more easily assimilated into everyday practice.

PBRN Registry

AHRQ's PBRN Registry is an online search repository of currently registered PBRNs. The search function is based on information PBRNs provide during the annual registry process. This tool provides users the ability to identify collaborators or resources by: network membership type, current or past research interests, and state(s) of operation. The PBRN Registry Map displays registered United States-based and international networks.

Over 120 active PBRNs are currently registered in AHRQ's PBRN Registry, based throughout the United States and globally.

Use the links below to register a PBRN for the first time, or to update an existing PBRN already registered.

• Register Your PBRN
• Update Your PBRN

Other PBRN Resources and Information

• New PBRN Learning Series (PDF, 253 KB)
• PBRN Conference
• History and Funding of PBRNs

For More Information

For more information about AHRQ's Primary Care PBRN support, contact us at PBRN@ahrq.hhs.gov.

Note

1. Healthcare Research and Quality Act of 1999, amendment to Title IX of the Public Health Service Act (42 U.S.C. 299 et seq.)

Please Note: the information provided on these PBRN pages is designed to support, not to replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her physician.