[Federal Register Volume 64, Number 119 (Tuesday, June 22, 1999)] [Notices] [Pages 33292-33293] From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] [FR Doc No: 99-15865] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Agency for Health Care Policy and Research Request for Expressions of Interest (``RFEI'') A. Background In January, 1999, the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) published a request for applications (RFA: HS-99-003, Translating Evidence into Practice [TRIP]) to conduct research related to implementing evidence-based tools and information in diverse health care settings among practitioners caring for diverse populations. Applications were sought for studies that applied innovative strategies for implementing evidence-based tools and information and would be able to demonstrate improved clinical practice and sustained practitioner behavior change. In fiscal year 2000, AHCPR plans to publish a second research solicitation focused on translating research into practice (TRIP-II). The aim of this solicitation will be to encourage partnerships between health care systems (e.g., integrated health service delivery systems, academic health systems, managed care programs including HMOs, practice networks, etc.) and researchers to evaluate the effectiveness of different strategies for improving the quality of care. To concentrate the TRIP-II effort, we will ask partners to address at least one of the following priorities:The six focus areas selected by the Department of Health and Human Services in which racial and ethnic minorities experience serious disparities in health access and outcomes: (a) Infant Mortality (b) Cancer Screening and Management (c) Cardiovascular Disease (d) Diabetes (e) HIV Infection/AIDS (f) Immunizations Pediatric Asthma Medical Errors and Patient Safety AHCPR has a particular interest in health systems that utilize the strengths of information systems for implementing strategies for quality improvement. B. Purpose The purpose of this Federal Register Notice is to identify health care systems which have begun or plan to develop programs in the above referenced areas and would be willing to partner with a research team in response to the TRIP-II solicitation. When the TRIP-II solicitation (request for applications or RFA) is published, health care systems interested in exploring partnerships with researchers will be listed in the RFA. Health care systems which have already established relationships with researchers--either internally or in academic settings--and who do not wish to be listed in the FRA itself will be eligible to apply. Health care systems which do not have existing relationships with researchers and choose not to respond to this RFEI are not precluded from responding with appropriate research partners to the TRIP-II RFA. The benefit of responding to this RFEI, however, will be helpful in facilitating the development of those relationships. Along with a letter expressing interest in partnerships, we would also appreciate suggestions and ideas regarding how AHCPR can encourage meaningful partnerships between researchers and health care systems. Suggestions and ideas are welcome independent of letters expressing interest. C. Dates We are requesting that letters of interest be submitted no later than August 4, 1999. These letters should [[Page 33293]] include names, addresses, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses of key contacts in the health care system and/or the academic setting if identified and potential research topic. The letter of interest is not binding and does not enter into the consideration of any subsequent application. The letter should also clearly state willingness to be listed in the RFA or a preference not to be listed. D. Address Letters of interest should be addressed to: Carolyn M. Clancy, MD, Director, Center for Outcomes and Effectiveness Research, Agency for Health Care Policy and Research, 6010 Executive Boulevard, Suite 300, Rockville, MD 20852, E-mail: [email protected]. Dated: June 17, 1999. John M. Eisenberg, Administrator. [FR Doc. 99-15865 Filed 6-21-99; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4160-90-M