Which design for which question? An exploration toward a translation table for comparative effectiveness research

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Clinical Effectiveness Research

Background:

• Comparative Effectiveness Research (CER) questions require robust methodologies.
• Selecting appropriate CER methods can be challenging for researchers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the relative value of different methods for answering CER questions.
• To inform the development of a 'translation table' for method selection in CER.
• To support the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute's research priorities.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of two case studies representing CER priorities.
• Evaluation of methods used in comparative clinical effectiveness research.
• Assessment of methods in comparative health services research.

Main Results:

• The study identifies the strengths and weaknesses of various CER methodologies.
• Insights are provided on method suitability for different research scenarios.
• The findings contribute to a framework for method selection in CER.

Conclusions:

• A 'translation table' can enhance the selection of appropriate CER methods.
• Methodological clarity is crucial for advancing comparative clinical and health services research.
• This work supports evidence-based decision-making in healthcare research.