Interview: A private sector life in comparative effectiveness research. Interview with Robert W Dubois

Robert W Dubois joined the National Pharmaceutical Council (Washington, DC, USA) in October 2010 as its Chief Science Officer. In this role, he oversees the National Pharmaceutical Council's research on policy issues related to comparative effectiveness research, as well as on how health outcomes are valued. Dr Dubois has cofounded and led various healthcare research organizations in developing quality research with practical application. Throughout his career, Dr Dubois' primary interest has centered on defining 'what works' in healthcare and finding ways for that evidence to inform healthcare decision-making. He is a recognized expert in the areas of defining best practice, disease management and appropriateness of care. He has authored more than 100 peer-reviewed articles on comparative effectiveness, evidence-based medicine, the development of practice guidelines and determining the optimal use of high-cost medical services. Dr Dubois received his AB from Harvard College (MA, USA), his MD from the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine (MD, USA) and his PhD in Health Policy from the RAND Graduate School (CA, USA). In addition, he is the associate editor of the Journal of Comparative Effectiveness Research and is on the editorial board for Health Affairs.