Implementation and testing of research infrastructure for practice-based research in hearing and communication disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To describe site capability and experience of the CHEER network (Creating Healthcare Excellence through Education and Research) to rapidly collect descriptive data on patients with tinnitus and dizziness visiting participating CHEER sites.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective observational data collection study over 6 months.

SETTING

Twenty one community otology and otolaryngology practices in the United States.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

As proof of concept, a data collection study was developed for patients with tinnitus and dizziness (presenting with or without associated migraine) through a collaborative effort of the CHEER principal investigator (PI) and co-PIs. The 9-page questionnaire included validated instruments and additional patient- and physician-reported information. Information was captured electronically via REDCap by each site's CHEER research coordinator. Site initiation, data entry rates, and research coordinator feedback were also collected.

RESULTS

Of the 21 CHEER sites, 15 participated in the study. Nine sites entered a patient within the first 31 days of study initiation, and all 15 sites were entering patients and corresponding clinical data within 72 days. During the 6-month study, 1044 patients were entered into the REDCap database. Research coordinator engagement was a major driver for success, whereas time and resources were deterrents. Incentives included altruism, professional development, and future financial opportunities.

CONCLUSION

The CHEER research network has significant capability and infrastructure to collect prospective data in a practice-based environment. Research coordinator engagement undergirds network success; however, future efforts will cultivate stronger collaboration of the coordinator and site PI. Central coordination of practice-based research through a hub and spoke concept can be successful.