Sarah Brewer, PhD, MPA, was recently selected as one of approximately 20 members of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s (AHRQ) Practice Based Research Network (PBRN) Technical Expert Panel (TEP). The goal of the AHRQ PBRN TEP is to obtain insight regarding approaches or strategies for supporting the research of PBRNs and guidance for the development and maintenance of web-based resources over a series of collaborative meetings. When asked about her selection for this panel, Sarah shared her enthusiasm for being able to effect change with regards to support of PBRNs of independent clinics. Many PBRNs, especially in pediatrics, are hosted by large systems—this is not the case for most Colorado PBRNs. She believes it is important for those working with networks like ours to have a voice because if policies and resources are only put in place for system-sponsored networks, the independent ones will suffer. She said, “The DFM, and Colorado, have really strong PBRNs, and one of the reasons I felt it was appropriate to apply [for the panel] is because I have a good sense of the rest of our networks. On a personal and professional level, it will be good to connect with other leaders in the PBRN space and use our different experiences to inform our path forward and consider what questions we should be asking and answering in primary care.”
Sarah Brewer, PhD, MPA
Assistant Professor, CU Department of Family Medicine
