What are some of the methodological tools I might choose to use?

Using a wide array of methods helps to better inform policy and management decisions. These methods generally fall into the major categories listed below, although this list is by no means all-inclusive. Also listed are specific methods within each category.

Health Policy

• Policy analysis
• Media analysis
• Qualitative analyses (grounded theory, phenomenology, conversation analysis)
• Law
• Ethics

Epidemiology

• Systematic reviews / meta-analysis
• Cohort study
• Case-control study
• Comparative case studies
• Randomized controlled trial
• Postmarketing adverse experience report analyses

Economics

• Cost-minimization, cost-effectiveness, cost-utility analysis
• Decision analysis
• Cost analysis
• Patient preferences/quality of life

Health Communications

• Label comprehension analysis
• Other health communication analyses relating to use of written, verbal and video materials

Business/Management

• Business plan
• Management strategy
• Customer/patient satisfaction

Another way to classify research projects is whether "primary" data is collected or "secondary" data sources are utilized. "Primary" data collection entails the collection of original data, for example a survey of patients, chart review to collect healthcare resource utilization, or a clinical trial. "Secondary" data collection entails the use of data sources such as previously published studies and electronic databases. It is not a requirement that students conduct primary data collection. In fact, students should pursue primary data collection only with concise, well-defined projects.

Go To: The PHPM Research Project