Background

 

redIAPP BACKGROUND 

Years 2003-2006

In 2003 the Primary Care Prevention and Health Promotion Network (redIAPP) was constituted in response to the Carlos III Health Institute (ISCiii) call for proposals (G03/170 network) which generated 67 research networks in Spain. For the first time in the history of Primary Care in Spain a network of research groups from 13 autonomous regions was established, thus opening the way to a stable research platform.
The initial structure of redIAPP comprised:
-    15 research nodes  (or wide research groups): almost 500 researchers and professionals involved,
-    13 autonomus communities
-    7 research areas

After 4 years the results obtanied were: almost 500 researchers and professionals  involved, 17 network projects, 57 papers, 10 doctoral theses, 12 short stays for training, more than 50 courses and workshops organized, and contribution to the development of 6 published guidelines.
In addition to these results, the redIAPP contributed to the development of research in the regions where their research nodes were located by encouraging policies of support for research in primary care and at the autonomous community management level. The final appraisal done by the International Assessment Board was positive and the continuation of the network was recommended.

 

Network restrcture in 2006

In 2006 there was a new call for proposals at the ISCiii to continue funding the networks created in 2003. The characteristics of this new call were very different, and the redIAPP was funded again but with only 11 groups and a smaller budget.

RedIAPP had to adapt to this new scenario and had to elaborate a new strategic plan. Two years later 2 more groups were admitted and funded and 2 more were also admitted but without funding; the redIAPP assumed their participation expenses. Furthermore, the network had 23 clinical support groups, with a small budget, in order to carry out support tasks for network projects. During this period, 2007-2012, redIAPP has been organized in 5 research areas (Mental health, Health services research, Lifestyles, Cardiovascular risk factors and Cancer).

The results obtained after 5 years were: 735 investigators (160 in the research groups and 575 in the clinical support groups); 30 network projects: 18 national, 2 European and 10 at the autonomous community level. More than 200 local projects developed by the different groups; 78 papers (IF=158.699). The total scientific production of the groups has been 690 articles (IF=1348.3); Transfer: 21 Clinical Practice Guidelines have been developed, 33 reports completed, and 7 instruments validated; the effectiveness of 8 interventions was evaluated and 12 contracts or agreements reached.