PS2-08: "I Didn't Know They Did That!" Discovering and Maximizing the Capacity of the HMO Research Network

Abstract

;Background/Aims: The HMO Research Network (HMORN) is a national consortium of research centers working within or in close partnership with integrated health systems. HMORN sites conduct public domain health research on a wide range of diseases and cross-cutting topics. While the HMORN has established large topical research networks, the HMORN’s collective capacity remains relatively untapped for the majority of topics. We illustrate the variation and concentration of topical and methodological expertise across the Network, and suggest ways the HMORN could leverage existing capacities more fully. Methods: Written surveys indicating ongoing local research capacity were completed by 14 HMORN sites in the 2nd quarter of 2011. Sites classified 45 research topics as “Powerhouse area” (multiple studies per year, particular depth or breadth exists), “Some Expertise” or “Not an emphasis.” These survey data were collected, synthesized and tabulated by the HMO Collaboratory team. We will survey the remaining 5 HMORN sites prior to HMORN 2012 and report capacity information for the entire Network. Results: Eleven of the 14 delivery systems (78.6%) directly owns or partners closely with an insurance entity; HMOs were a major component of these systems. Special research capacities of HMORN centers include facilities to fill prescriptions, facilities to perform research lab tests, survey departments, and dedicated research clinics. While significant capacity exists across the Network in topics with well established consortia (e.g., cancer, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease), capacity existed in multiple centers for every topic surveyed. Multiple HMORN centers reported “powerhouse areas” on topics around which the HMORN has not significantly mobilized. These included alcohol and drug abuse, arthritis, neurological disorders, oral health, aging, health disparities, pain management, pediatrics, and reproductive health among others. Discussion: Many opportunities for expanding multicenter research to new areas exist in the HMORN. Continuing to improve documentation of where expertise exists in the Network (both organizationally and individually) would help connect HMORN investigators to funding agencies, to new opportunities, and to one another. Additional scientific interest groups are one potential strategy to mobilize researchers with topical affinities and position the HMORN to expand its portfolio into new research topics in the