About the PCORI Ambassador Program

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The Ambassador Program aims to leverage the momentum and leadership of healthcare partners, networks, patients, caregivers and communities to advance patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER). In line with PCORI's five National Priorities for Health, including a goal focused on achieving health equity, the Ambassador Program aims to develop a community of trained, well-informed patients and partners to meaningfully collaborate with researchers in patient-centered research projects and to help expedite the dissemination and implementation of research findings through these networks and their local communities.

The Mission, Vision, and Strategic Objectives

	To engage PCORI Ambassadors in strengthening the patient-centered CER community and increasing the reach and influence of PCORI‐funded research within their networks.
	Ambassadors are shifting the culture of CER by spreading the word about the importance of community-engaged research, leading initiatives, forging impactful partnerships and engagement strategies, and facilitating the use of evidence-based research.
	Creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive community centered around patient-centered CER. Identifying key research gaps and opportunities to support health decision making. Engaging in research and with PCORI. Sharing and translating research results within your communities.

Why do we need Ambassadors?

• Ambassadors have unique perspectives and ideas that support PCORI in its pursuit of helping patients and those who care for them make better-informed healthcare decisions.
• Ambassadors are PCORI’s boots on the ground and supplement our organizational efforts. They activate communities and help them engage in CER more effectively.
• Ambassadors prepare their communities to receive and provide feedback on research results.
• They also share CER best practices, enabling their communities to be more engaged in the preparation, conduct, and dissemination of research.

Are Ambassadors official PCORI representatives?

Ambassadors are volunteers, and not representatives of PCORI. While they do not speak on PCORI's behalf, they are partners aligned with PCORI's principles. Statements made by Ambassadors should not be construed as statements from PCORI.

How did the Ambassador Program start?

In 2012, PCORI held a workshop to build partnerships that would enhance patient-centered CER. PCORI executive director at the time, Joe Selby, noted that the readiness of the patient and stakeholder community at the workshop affirmed PCORI’s assumption that the patient community was up to the challenge of playing its part in transforming the research enterprise.

At the close of the workshop, a participant noted the opportunity to capitalize on the energy and enthusiasm of the group to be influential in promoting patient-centered CER. A key recommendation from the workshop was the concept of the PCORI Ambassador Program.

How does PCORI support Ambassadors?

PCORI Ambassadors have the support and guidance of the PCORI Ambassador Team. They support Ambassador initiatives, address challenges, and strategize community-based partnerships.

For questions about the PCORI Ambassador Program, contact us at [email protected].

Posted: August 28, 2018; Updated: July 13, 2023