Introduction to Comparative Effectiveness and Outcomes Research

3 Credits.

Introduces students to the motivation and methods of comparative effectiveness research. Reviews the problems faced by decision makers across the US health care system, and the priority topics for investigation. Explains the role of stakeholders, including payors, manufacturers, health care organizations, professional groups, providers and patients. Explains study designs and methods used in effectiveness research, focusing in particular on observational studies. Also describes the policy implications of this research.