The selection of a model should be based on the nature of the studies and our goals. The fixed effect model makes sense if (a) there is reason to believe that all the studies are functionally identical, and (b) our goal is to compute the common effect size, which would then be generalized to other … Continue reading Fixed- vs Random-effects models in meta-analysis
What human want! Outcomes Research
For clinicians and patients, outcomes research provides evidence about benefits, risks, and results of treatments so they can make more informed decisions
Utilizing the results of DTA studies
Clinical questions regarding the diagnosis of disease is a challenge in the era of EBM because of the challenge to understand and apply the results of DTA studies. Currently, The Likelihood Ratio (LR) is used to assess how good a diagnostic test is and to help in selecting an appropriate diagnostic test(s) or sequence of … Continue reading Utilizing the results of DTA studies
QUADAS-2
A quality assessment tool for diagnostic accuracy studies The original QUADAS tool was developed through a collaborative project between the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (CRD), University of York, and the Academic Medical Centre at the University of Amsterdam. It was funded through the HTA programme and was published in 2003. Since its development QUADAS … Continue reading QUADAS-2
The evangelist and EBM
An evangelist, I confessed, when Alan Cassels made a remark framed with a question mark in an interview in Madrid 19th Cochrane Colloquium. It is obvious that I support the principles of evidence-based medicine (EBM). I am, therefore, not satisfied to see EBM in captivity due to the challenge of teaching its skills and the challenge … Continue reading The evangelist and EBM
New Comers’ Session
Interns and Fresh Graduates are advised to attend the New comers' session that will be held on Sunday 22 Jan 2012 at 12:45 pm. Venue: HERU - Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology - Third Floor This orientation session will offer a brief and informal introduction to HERU. A brief introduction by HERU Coordinator (Five minutes) … Continue reading New Comers’ Session
Quiz: Allocation concealment
A randomized controlled trial investigated whether an exercise program increased activity levels in women. Intervention consisted of brief physical activity with regular support that was led by nurses. Control participants received usual care. The order in which participants were allocated to treatment was contained in sequentially numbered opaque envelopes. A researcher not involved in recruitment … Continue reading Quiz: Allocation concealment
Clinical Practice Guidelines
Guidelines are designed to support the decision-making processes in patient care . The content of a guideline is based on a systematic review of clinical evidence - the main source for evidence-based care. Purposes of guidelines To describe appropriate care based on the best available scientific evidence and broad consensus; To reduce inappropriate variation in practice; … Continue reading Clinical Practice Guidelines
PSWG progress meeting
The progress meeting of HERU Priority Setting Working Group will convene on Thursday 10 November 2011 at 11 am in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Patient centered prioritization of research
Background: HERU priority setting working group (PSWG) aims to improve the condition and relieve the burden of disease from individuals (and the community). HERU PSWG declares the lack of a clear definition of what must be the priority in health research. HERU PSWG considers the existing research portfolio in the world, current scientific advances, the … Continue reading Patient centered prioritization of research
ECEBM 