Use of Rapid Assessment Procedures when analyzing qualitative data in pharmacy research

Qualitative research analytics and methodology are a useful part of many research projects. However, qualitative data analysis may be time intensive causing delays in results. This is especially problematic in time-sensitive projects where there an urgent need for results and a rapidly evolving situation being studied, such as during health crisis or early stages of project implementation. An emerging body of literature around the use of Rapid Assessment Procedures (RAP) suggests that this method of qualitative assessment provides more efficient coding and categorizing of data without comprising rigor. The objectives of this manuscript are to: 1) describe how RAP can be used in pragmatic healthcare research studies and 2) provide an example of when RAP was applied to a qualitative research study in the healthcare setting. RAP includes 5 core features: 1) use in combination with quantitative outcomes or process data (mixed methods approach), 2) quick timeline from start to finish (weeks to months), 3) population of interest participation in planning and implementing the research, 4) team approach to research process, and 5) iterative cycle of data collection and analysis. Use of RAP provides key stakeholders and decision makers the ability to generate solutions to problems faster than ever before without compromising rigor, a method needed now more than ever. The progression of healthcare and clinical management is moving at an unprecedented rate, and RAP allows researchers to stay ahead by providing quicker results for better outcomes.