Evaluating Practice-Based Research Network (PBRN) Websites Using an Information Extraction Form and Interviews of Website Webmasters

Abstract

Specific Aims: To evaluate and describe the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) affiliated practice-based research network (PBRN) websites to determine the best qualities regarding format, content, and accessibility using a developed PBRN website information extraction form. Methods: A PBRN information extraction form was developed to assess the format, content, and accessibility of each AHRQ-affiliated PBRN website. Each student investigator completed an electronic copy of the extraction form for each PBRN website to confirm consistency of findings. A phone interview was then conducted with the webmasters of the PBRNs with the highest scores to determine the influences and challenges those webmasters faced during the development of their PBRN websites. Main Results: The information extraction form was completed for each of the 104 active PBRN websites in the U.S. The most common elements seen on the PBRN websites were site map, email address, mission statement, phone number, and search toolbar. The inter-rater agreement between the two student investigators for the data collected was 84 percent. Regarding the webmaster interviews, the majority of the webmasters believed that the single most important factor in creating a successful PBRN website was identifying the audience of the PBRN and making the material appropriate for that audience. Conclusion: The developed information extraction form was used to successfully evaluate and describe the AHRQ-affiliated PBRN websites. Audience identification is important in order to provide appropriate content, as well as in the development of an effective PBRN website.