Here are four ways to distinguish practical results from research duds, according to Dr. Frakt, health economist for the Department of Veterans Affairs.
1. Ask yourself about the study’s background. Dr. Frakt recommends asking the following questions: What methods did the researchers use? Did the study examine effects on humans rather than just animals? Did the study examine harms as well as benefits? Diving deeper into the study will help determine its usefulness.
2. Know the weaknesses in randomized trials. “The people researchers examine are never exactly like you,” Dr. Frakt wrote. Randomized trials study large numbers of people, which often causes the two studied groups to be statistically identical to each other. However, you may not be identical to those in either group. Dr. Frakt points out that randomized trials are typically targeted toward those most likely to benefit from treatment.
3. Understand the implications of non-experimental studies. “Non-experimental” or “observational” database studies utilize data sets, like those available from Medicare, Medicaid and the Veterans Health Administration. Though these studies enable researchers to report differences in treatment effects, they often compare people who could have self-selected treatment. Because the studies rely on different assumptions than randomized trials, Dr. Frakt suggests examining them before relying on the results.
4. Wait for more results. Dr. Frakt advises patience before taking any results to heart. “The best bet is to wait, if you can, until evidence accumulates from many studies using a range of methods and applied to different populations,” he wrote.
More articles on population health:
Submissions open for $100k population health prize
Allina Health to eliminate sugary soft drinks and french fries
Food insecurity linked to high healthcare costs in new study
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
