the pregnancy-related care research network

research to improve women’s healthcare

The Pregnancy-Related Care Research Network (PRCRN) is funded by the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), Maternal and Child Health Bureau to improve healthcare for women and children in the United States through health service, biologic, and social science research. The PRCRN national coordinating center is based at the University of Washington, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Seattle, Washington and coordinates research at 16 medical centers across the United States.

WHY IS THE PRCRN UNIQUE?

The PRCRN uses three robust research strategies to define current clinical practices and patient outcomes, and to pilot evidence-based interventions.

• NATION-WIDE AND REGIONAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDER SURVEY PANELS: PRCRN has the only national survey panel of practicing obstetrician-gynecologists who are surveyed multiple times per year on their practice patterns and knowledge. PRCRN also has a WWAMI (Washington, Wyoming, Alaska, Idaho) regional specific provider survey panel, and a survey panel of advance practice clinicians who care for women.

• ON-SITE INTERVENTIONS AT PRCRN COLLABORATING INSTITUTIONS: With over 50 investigator collaborators in 18 different states, PRCRN supports young investigators to pilot evidence-based interventions on the ground in their health centers.

• EHR DATABASE STUDIES: The PRCRN has access to large medical record databases at academic and community health centers for retrospective investigations into women’s health.

PRCRN OBJECTIVES

• Encourage interaction among different health care professionals, researchers, and policy analysts to study critical issues in order to improve maternal and child health.

• Analyze the opinions, knowledge, clinical practice, and educational needs of physicians relevant to maternal and child health.

• Evaluate the efficacy and outcomes of clinical practice guidelines affecting maternal and child health.

• Train and mentor students and young researchers/physicians and provide logistical support to encourage young investigators to engage in research.

JOIN US

If you are a women’s healthcare provider in the United States, we need your help. Complete this form if you would like to join a survey panel or become a PRCRN research collaborator or trainee. All providers of healthcare to women are welcome!