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Designing a Visit Schedule for Longitudinal Studies in Pediatric Research
Steven Hirschfeld1, Michael Dellarco2, Cindy J Nowinski3
1Department of Pediatrics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States.
Frontiers in Pediatrics
|September 29, 2022
Summary
Designing longitudinal study visits requires careful planning for scientific rigor, participant burden, and operational feasibility. This approach ensures robust data collection for future research and serves as a model for other studies.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health Sciences
- Epidemiology
- Biostatistics
Background:
- Longitudinal studies face challenges in designing scientifically sound, participant-friendly, and operationally feasible assessment visits.
- Effective sequencing and spacing of visits are crucial for achieving study objectives and building a comprehensive data archive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the multi-disciplinary approach used to design the National Children's Study's visit structure.
- To provide a model and resource for other longitudinal studies regarding visit design and data management.
Main Methods:
- Coordinated comprehensive multi-disciplinary activities.
- Focused on designing the content, format, and structure of study visits.
- Ensured scientific logic, participant feasibility, and operational efficiency.
Main Results:
- Developed a structured framework for longitudinal study visits.
- Created a robust and well-documented data archive design.
- Established a transferable model for future research initiatives.
Conclusions:
- The coordinated design process for the National Children's Study visit structure offers a valuable blueprint.
- This methodology enhances the feasibility and scientific value of longitudinal research.
- The developed framework serves as a key resource for other large-scale cohort studies.
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