History of ACPNet
ACP's practice-based research network developed out of QNet, an initiative to assess physicians' compliance to best practices and to explore barriers to adherence. The success of QNet and positive feedback from members inspired the College to develop a full-fledged research network, now called ACPNet, and helped secure funding from the Agency for Health Care Research and Quality (AHRQ) to strengthen the infrastructure and develop new research studies using the network concept. QNet continues to exist as a self-assessment program under the direction of Dr. Patrick Alguire of the College's Education and Career Development Department.
Results from QNet studies (completed in 2000)
The College selected five clinical conditions based on criteria such as prevalence, well-established evidence-based treatment norms, ease of documentation, and improved patient outcomes linked to "best practices". These conditions were:
- Asthma
- Adult-onset diabetes mellitus
- Warfarin therapy for anticoagulation
- Congestive heart failure
- Cholesterol risk factor identification
Audit-feedback studies of these five conditions were developed to obtain a snapshot of practice behavior: Each participating physician collected data on 25 patients with the specified condition using a simple one-page template relating to current best practices, and submitted comments on barriers to compliance. Participants received individualized confidential performance report comparing their patient care behavior with others in the network, as well as a qualitative analysis of the barriers.
US Distribution of Participants
This map shows where QNet members are located within the United States. We also have members in Canada, Mexico, Pakistan, Puerto Rico, and Spain.
Number of Active Physicians by Condition
Diabetes was the condition most frequently chosen by QNet
members.
Number of Forms Returned by Condition
More than 50% of questionnaires were returned by QNet members
for 4 of the 5 conditions.
Physician Response Rate by Condition
Diabetes was the condition with the highest response rate.
Page posted: 23-Apr-03
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