Clinical Directors Network, Inc.

Overview

Clinical Directors Network, Inc. (CDN) is a not-for-profit clinician membership organization, practice-based research network (PBRN), and clinician training organization. The organization was founded to provide peer-initiated activities for clinicians practicing in low-income, minority, and other underserved communities[1][2].

Mission

CDN's mission centers on supporting community-based health care centers, including their patients, practitioners, and organizations. It aims to improve the overall health of individuals, families, and communities by focusing on primary medical, dental, and behavioral well-being. The organization advocates for meeting the health needs of underserved populations, providing access to high-quality healthcare, and promoting greater social justice for all[1][3].

Objectives

The primary objectives of CDN include:

• Practice-Based Research: Conducting research that is relevant, practical, and timely, with a focus on translating clinical research into practice to enhance health equity and improve public health[1][2].
• Clinical Practice Improvement: Providing educational and training activities to support clinicians in community health settings.
• Advocacy: Advocating for the clinician’s perspective in the administration and management of community-based health care centers[1].

Values

CDN holds the following values:

• Right to Quality Healthcare: CDN believes all people have the right to high-quality, community-based healthcare.
• Career Viability: Practicing in a community-based health care center is considered a desirable, viable long-term career choice for clinicians.
• Research Impact: Research conducted at community health centers supports the dissemination, adoption, and implementation of new knowledge, enhancing care quality, health equity, and public health[1].

Activities and Partnerships

CDN is recognized for its extensive experience in developing, conducting, and evaluating practice-based research with Community Health Centers and other safety-net practices[2]. It collaborates with government, academic, not-for-profit, and for-profit organizations to achieve its goals[1]. CDN also provides peer support through training and education, integrating both online and on-site learning experiences[2].

In 2006, CDN was designated a "Best Practice" Clinical Research Network by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In 2012, it was designated an AHRQ Center of Excellence for Primary Care Practice-Based Research and Learning[2].

CDN operates a for-profit subsidiary, Quality Professional Systems Development, Inc. (QPSD)[1].

History

Founded in 1985, CDN is the oldest and largest PBRN dedicated to improving comprehensive and accessible community-oriented primary and preventive healthcare services for poor, minority, and underserved populations[1].