Moving Research into Practice: Lessons from the IDSRN Program
Author Information
Author(s): Marsha Gold, Erin Taylor
Primary Institution: Mathematica Policy Research Inc.
Hypothesis
How successful was IDSRN in generating research findings that could be applied in practice?
Conclusion
Stronger partnerships between researchers and delivery systems can make research more relevant to users, but require clear goals and appropriate targeting of resources.
Supporting Evidence
- 30 out of 50 completed projects had an operational effect or use.
- An internal champion was necessary for partnerships involving researchers based outside the delivery system.
- Factors limiting success included limited project funding and failure to reach the appropriate audience.
Takeaway
This study shows that when researchers work closely with health care systems, they can create useful tools and findings that help improve health care, but it takes time and effort to make it happen.
Methodology
In-person and telephone interviews with AHRQ staff and nine IDSRN partner organizations, document review, project analysis, and case studies.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the reliance on self-reported data from participants.
Limitations
Limited project funding and competing demands on potential research users hindered the implementation of findings.
Participant Demographics
Participants included AHRQ staff and representatives from nine partner organizations involved in health care delivery.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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