46 Cross-Disciplinary Education in Biostatistics and Epidemiology in Program Managers for CTSA BERD Cores

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: The overall goals of this project are: (1) to demonstrate the utility of staff with cross-disciplinary skills in biostatistics and epidemiology as program managers for CTSA BERD Cores, and (2) examine streamlined processes in project triaging, consultations, and data extractions for CTSA service requests when individuals are in this role. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Biostatistics and epidemiology are partnered disciplines incorporated in a variety of research areas, especially in human health sciences and health care. For interdisciplinary teams, including individuals trained in both specialties results in efficient research collaborations. When these individuals are program managers for research navigation, processes become more effective and expedited for project timelines and workflows across the CTSA. Examples of this integration are described in vignettes from project triaging, statistical consultations, and data extractions from CTSA service requests. Process comparisons of previous and current workflows are presented to show the advantages of utilizing this type of program manager within these areas of BERD. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: This project defines three areas of integration for a program manager with cross-disciplinary training in biostatistics and epidemiology: (1) project triaging to statistical teams, (2) study design and analysis consultations, and (3) data extractions. Each of these areas demonstrates prior processes that once would require multiple steps in CTSA service requests (including time, resources, and personnel) and identified common issues (slow response to requests, data re-extractions, and challenges providing statistical support) that are now avoided with a manager with cross-training in biostatistics and epidemiology methods. The advantages and disadvantages of integrating these individuals are also described. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: BERD Cores seeking improvements to research navigation processes can gain efficiency by incorporating program managers with cross-disciplinary training in biostatistics and epidemiology. BERD Cores may also use this as a case study for translational science with innovation to longstanding challenges in CTSA research workflows.