There are a variety of ways of conceptualizing pragmatic research – from pragmatic
clinical trials to drug trials focused on real-world evidence to dissemination and
implementation research. For COPRH Con, we conceptualize pragmatic research as
research designed to be conducted in the real world using usual care settings, resources,
and structures.
Pragmatic research is intended to help support a decision by service and care providers –
and policy makers, patients, and other stakeholders – on whether and in what context to
adopt, deliver, or make use of an intervention. COPRH Con brings both established and
emerging pragmatic methods, measures, and models, many of which come from the
blossoming field of dissemination and implementation (or ‘D&I’) science. These methods
help to ensure that pragmatic research is not seen as messy or poorly done research, but
rather relevant AND rigorous.
Of great importance is the fact that conducting research in diverse, real world settings
helps to ensure that our evidence can be applied successfully across different populations
and contexts – which is critical for promoting health equity.
COPRH Con is a three-year conference series funded by the Agency for Healthcare
Research and Quality (R13HS027526). The aims of the conference series are to:
- Describe and promote use of pragmatic research methods, models, and
measures to support translation of evidence-based practices, policies, and
guidelines to clinical, community, and public health settings.
- Build capacity for pragmatic research through use of web-based tools, templates,
and guidance materials for application of pragmatic research methods.
- Foster team science in use and testing of pragmatic research methods through
creation and support of a virtual learning community.
The COPRH Con series follows the Evidence Life Cycle. Year 1 focused on
Phase – pragmatic research conceptualization, planning and getting funded. Year 2
focused on Phase II – conduct and implementation of pragmatic research, with topics
such as accessing learning health system infrastructure, adaptation, ethics, and human
subjects research considerations. Year 3 focused on Phases III and IV – with topics such
as dissemination, sustainment, commercialization, and de-implementation.
