Which institute was established to enhance patient-centered research under the ACA?

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) was established to enhance patient-centered research under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Its primary goal is to provide patients, clinicians, and policymakers with evidence-based information that helps them make more informed decisions regarding health care options. PCORI focuses specifically on engaging patients in the research process to ensure that their preferences and needs are prioritized, ultimately aiming to improve health outcomes and quality of care.

This institute supports studies designed to compare various treatment options and assess their effectiveness from the patient's perspective. By doing so, PCORI helps bridge the gap between clinical research and actual patient care, fostering an environment where patient-oriented outcomes are at the forefront of healthcare research.

In contrast, the other organizations listed have different mandates. The National Institutes of Health primarily conducts and supports medical research but does not have the specific focus on patient-centered research that PCORI emphasizes. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality works on improving healthcare quality and safety, while the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention focuses on public health and disease control rather than patient-centered outcomes directly. This clarity about the role and focus of PCORI highlights why it is the correct answer to the question about which institute was specifically established to enhance patient-centered research under the ACA.