JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Practice-Based Research Networks (PBRNs) provide a collaborative framework that links primary care practitioners and researchers to address clinically relevant questions directly in everyday practice. To enable effective collaboration across multiple regions, PBRNs require sustainable and interoperable IT infrastructures that support communication, data management, and long-term partnership building.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to design and evaluate a participatory, consensus-driven process for developing a sustainable and interoperable IT solution that supports the coordination of multiple regional PBRNs and facilitates long-term collaboration between practices and academic institutions.

Methods:

A qualitative participatory multi-method approach was applied, combining iterative consensus-building for IT development, interdisciplinary workshops, and qualitative document analysis.

Results:

Key findings emphasize the need for a harmonized IT infrastructure supporting the national coordination of six regional PBRNs. Challenges, such as heterogeneous IT competencies and diverse organizational goals, required close stakeholder collaboration. The developed Practice Relationship Management (PRM) solution aims to foster long-term partnerships between practices and academic institutions while ensuring technical interoperability.

Conclusions:

This study underscores the critical role of social and organizational processes in the success of large-scale health IT initiatives and highlights the importance of shared understanding and trust-building among all participants.