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Invited commentary: consequential(ist) epidemiology: let's seize the day.
American Journal of Epidemiology
|September 12, 2013
Summary
Epidemiology must adopt practical approaches to demonstrate its value. Focusing on "so what" and "how much" questions will enhance public health relevance and efficient healthcare delivery.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The field of epidemiology is urged to reconnect with its pragmatic origins.
- A call for a more "consequentialist" approach in epidemiological research is highlighted.
Purpose of the Study:
- To advocate for a shift towards practical, results-oriented epidemiology.
- To emphasize the importance of demonstrating the impact and cost-effectiveness of public health interventions.
Main Methods:
- The article discusses the potential of leveraging population-level data.
- It suggests utilizing resources made available through policy changes like the Affordable Care Act.
Main Results:
- Access to large-scale databases can facilitate the examination of healthcare efficiency.
- This approach can identify methods for more cost-effective care delivery.
Conclusions:
- Asking "so what" and "how much" will increase epidemiology's relevance.
- Embracing consequentialism is crucial for the future impact of the science of epidemiology.
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