Founded in 1987, WREN is one of the oldest and most respected practice-based research networks (PBRNs) in the nation. PBRNs are groups of clinicians and practices working together to answer community-based healthcare questions and translate research findings into practice. As a primary care PBRN, WREN engages clinics in high-quality research and quality improvement projects.
Primary care practice-based research happens in clinics where most patients receive care.
Learn more about PBRNS: Practice-Based Research – “Blue Highways” on the NIH Roadmap
Clinic Recognition
WREN conducts high-quality research and quality improvement projects in “real-world” family practices across Wisconsin.
Over the years many clinics from various health systems have collaborated on WREN projects. We are grateful for the commitment of these clinics and their staff members who voluntarily agree to participate in WREN projects. Without you we could not conduct the research necessary to make WREN projects a success.
Size and Scope
WREN is a community of Wisconsin primary care physicians and university researchers working together to answer important questions that affect primary care practices, physicians, and their patients.
WREN works with a diverse patient population in urban, suburban, and rural clinics. Across the state of Wisconsin, WREN has collaborated within
- 59 communities
- 35 counties
- 80 clinics (urban, suburban, rural & Federally Qualified Health Centers)
- 37 health systems
WREN Reports
- WREN FY24 Annual Report (PDF)
- WREN FY23 Annual Report (PDF)
- WREN FY22 Annual Report (PDF)
- WREN FY21 Annual Report (PDF)
Mission
WREN’s mission is to promote and conduct primary care research and education in partnership with primary care clinicians and the communities they serve.
Vision
WREN will improve health outcomes for the people of Wisconsin and beyond as a model practice-based research network.