BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL, INC., THE

The proposed BWH DEciDE Methods Center & Network will complement and support new research and evidence development activities that will be conducted under DEciDE and other funding mechanisms involving ARRA funds. In collaboration with AHRQ we will propose, prioritize, and coordinate projects on scientific methods development and testing in several key areas that can be applied to strengthen the validity of findings .from CER We will provide substantial scientific support through reviewing and a new Methods Learning Network to facilitate the optimal use of methods and analyses as they are applied across all DEciDE centers or consortia and ARRA funded studies. We will provide educational activities to improve methods knowledge and understanding throughout the DEciDE investigator group and will provide a forum for scientific exchange on methodological developments. Specific Aims: Three main aims are identified for the BWH DEciDE Methods Center & Network, each of which have several sub-aims that are detailed In the respective sections of this proposal: 1. Establish and manage an efficient peer-review process for ARRA-funded CER projects that will guarantee timely feedback on proposals, reports and manuscripts on CER projects: - The reviewing center will provide structured and. detailed reviews conducted by epidemiologists and biostatisticians in a timely fashion. - All reviews will be supported by the leadership and judgment of senior faculty from the BWH DEciDE Research Center at Harvard Medical School and for specific methodological questions our Partner Institutions. - All documents prepared by this center (including reviews) will be monitored for compliance with DEciDE publication policies and Section 508 regulations. 2. Develop a multifaceted Methods Learning Network for comparative effectiveness research under the leadership of nationally recognized CER methods researchers with a variety of backgrounds from multiple DEciDE Research Centers. - The Methods learning Network will include all CER Investigators who are either leading a CER project or are involved in the design and analysis of projects. It will serve as a protected environment for the open exchange of new and existing methods Issues, which will be discussed in a non-dismissive and supportive way to foster learning and growth. - The Methods Learning Network will also meet for 2 annual methods symposia on CER-related methods Issues. - Working with experienced Investigators at Outcome Sciences, Inc. the Network will further be Involved In updating existing guidance documents and in suggesting the development of new guidance documents on important topic areas as they are identified. 3. Conduct cutting-edge methods research to improve the validity of CER in meaningful ways. - The Center has proposed an outline of important methods research areas. These methods research areas will be discussed, modified and amended in quarterly meetings with the Technical Expert Panel and weekly meetings with the AHRQ TOO. - In this proposal we have put forward 22 innovative and relevant methods research projects within the scope of CER. - Together AHRQ, the Technical Expert Panel (TEP) and senior Investigators of the DEciDE Methods Center & Network win select five of the proposed projects to be funded and completed within the three-year contract. The selection of topics will be informed by the methodological Issues arising in the supported ARRA CER consortia. - These projects, although some very technical in nature, will result in hands-on guidance and software products for easy application to CER Investigators.

Clarification of Codes