What is Comparative Effectiveness Research?
Comparative Effectiveness Research (CER) is a type of research that compares the benefits and harms of different intervention strategies to improve patient health. It focuses on real-world outcomes rather than just clinical efficacy. CER is especially important in the field of pharmacoepidemiology, where it evaluates different drug therapies and their effects on population health.
Objectives of CER
- To inform healthcare decisions by comparing the effectiveness of various treatment options.
- To assess the risks and benefits associated with interventions in diverse populations.
- To optimize resource allocation in public health systems.
Methods Used in CER
CER employs various methods such as randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and case-control studies. These methods help gather data on how different treatments perform in usual clinical practice settings as opposed to controlled environments.
Importance in Public Health
By identifying the most effective therapies, CER contributes to better patient outcomes and informs healthcare policy. It also plays a crucial role in health disparities by examining how treatments affect different demographic groups.