Practice-Based Research Networks

Based on the model of the Kentucky Ambulatory Network, REACH has been extensively involved in development of new Practice-Based Research Networks (PBRNs) based at the University of Kentucky with membership across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. At present, three additional PBRNs – in Pharmacy, Public Health, and Rehabilitation Medicine – have been established. A fifth PBRN in oral health lead by the College of Dentistry is under development. Each UK-based PBRN has a unique mission and infrastructure. Taken together, they constitute a "meta-network" of university faculty, researchers, health care professionals and providers, and government agencies mobilized to address chronic health issues and improve the health and well-being of the citizens of the commonwealth.

In addition, the REACH focus on development of PBRNs as an avenue to academic-community collaborations and broad regional implications of UK's CCTS in extended parts of Appalachia have led to preliminary collaborations with Appalachian State University in North Carolina, and to recently emerging discussions for a link with West Virginia University and the West Virginia Academy of Family Physicians, to develop an Appalachian primary care PBRN collaborative.