CTSI Announcement

September 29, 2025

PCORnet®: A Powerful Resource for Researchers

Advancing Science, Supporting Clinical Practice, and Improving Quality of Life


Researchers at Wake Forest University School of Medicine are dedicated to advancing healthcare through research, collaboration, and innovative approaches that deliver measurable benefits to patients and communities. Faculty can further this work by leveraging PCORnet®, the National Patient-Centered Clinical Research Network—a unique resource that significantly expands research possibilities. To stay connected with the latest updates, research opportunities, and news, follow PCORnet® on LinkedIn.

What is PCORnet®?

PCORnet® is a nationwide network of networks that connects health systems, research organizations and patient partners. By linking electronic health record (EHR) data through a common data model, the network enables the study of large populations across the country. This infrastructure reduces traditional barriers to multi-site research, such as inconsistent data, lengthy contracting processes and duplicative institutional review board (IRB) review.


The Value of PCORnet®

PCORnet® enables access to data from millions of patients spanning multiple regions and health systems. Transforming data from a variety of source systems into the PCORnet® common data model is essential for high-quality research. When information from multiple hospitals, clinics, or health networks is standardized, researchers can confidently combine and analyze data across sites without worrying about inconsistencies in format, terminology, or structure. This harmonization enables larger, more representative study populations, increases statistical power, and allows for more robust comparisons and generalizations. It also streamlines collaboration, reduces the time and effort needed for data cleaning, and supports reproducibility—making research findings more reliable and actionable. Some key advantages include:

  • Streamlined governance and data-sharing agreements, facilitating efficient initiation of studies.

  • Structured mechanisms for patient engagement, ensuring that research addresses participant-prioritized outcomes.

  • Timely and applicable insights for clinical practice and policy, as the data is derived directly from care settings.


Opportunities for Research

PCORnet® is particularly well-suited for:

  • Comparative effectiveness trials evaluating real-world treatment options

  • Observational studies using harmonized EHR data from multiple health systems

  • Research supported by access to large, varied populations

  • Rapid response studies, such as those conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic


The following examples demonstrate the impact of PCORnet® on research initiatives:
 


Strengthening Proposals and Impact

Funding agencies increasingly prioritize research that is patient-centered, scalable and grounded in real-world evidence. Leveraging PCORnet® in study design demonstrates access to national datasets, robust infrastructure and collaborative opportunities. These are qualities that make proposals more competitive.

The Wake Forest University School of Medicine faculty members are already leading important work to improve health and build trust with the communities they serve. PCORnet® offers an opportunity to extend that impact by providing scale, speed and a patient-centered focus that can nationally distinguish the School of Medicine’s research. 

Leveraging institutional resources in conjunction with PCORnet's extensive network enables faculty to conduct research that contributes to scientific advancement, informs clinical practice, and enhances quality of life. For more information, visit pcornet.org to learn more about available tools and resources.


How to Connect and Learn More

The PCORnet® Front Door supports researchers by consulting on data needs, facilitating secure data queries across the network, organizing informational webinars, and connecting researchers with subject matter experts and potential research partners. Through the Front Door, users can request preliminary data to assess study feasibility, connect with collaborators across the network, and receive guidance on designing research projects using PCORnet’s common data model.

The Wake Forest University School of Medicine is a participating site for PCORNet® (site PI: Tom Houston, MD MPH).  For questions about the School of Medicine's engagement in the network, contact Larisa Rodgers at Larisa.Rodgers@AdvocateHealth.org.