Why does AHRQ support PBRNs?
As part of the December, 1999 legislation (Public Law 106-129) reauthorizing and renaming the Agency, AHRQ was directed to employ research strategies and mechanisms that link research directly with clinical practice in geographically diverse locations throughout the country, including the use of “provider-based research networks especially (in) primary care.” To better address issues of disparities in health care quality, outcomes, cost, and access for various segments of the U.S. population, amended section 901(b)(2) authorized the Agency to implement research strategies and mechanisms that specifically include PBRNs.
