RE-AIMing research for application: ways to improve evidence for family medicine.
OBJECTIVE
To outline changes in clinical research design and measurement that should enhance the relevance of research to family medicine.


METHODS
Review of the traditional efficacy research paradigm and discussion of why this needs to be expanded. Presentation of practical clinical and behavioral trials frameworks, and of the RE-AIM model for planning, evaluating, and reporting studies.


RESULTS
Recommended changes to improve the external validity and relevance of research to family medicine include studying multiple clinical practices, realistic alternative program choices, heterogeneous and representative patients, and multiple outcomes including cost, behavior change of patients and staff, generalization, and quality of life.


CONCLUSIONS
The methods and procedures discussed can help program planners, evaluators and readers of research articles to evaluate the replicability, consistency of effects, and likelihood of widespread adoption of interventions.
Kaiser Permanente Colorado, 335 Road Runner Lane, Penrose, CO 81240, USA. russg@ris.net
Russell E
RE
Glasgow
D035841:Behavioral Research; D035843:Biomedical Research / Q000379:methods*; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine / Q000639:trends*; D005194:Family Practice; D006801:Humans; D011320:Primary Health Care; D011788:Quality of Life; D012107:Research Design; D012109:Research Support as Topic; D014481:United States