VM603 Fall 2022

Credible Sources

• Fact-based and cite their sources
• Written by knowledgeable and credible sources in the field
• Are not biased (they are not used to market products, etc.)

Research study methodologies

Questions to ask when assessing research methodology:

• Is the research question and hypothesis clearly defined?
• Are the methods and measurements detailed enough so that the study is reproducible?
• Were the comparison groups truly comparable?
• Were patients in each group randomized?
• Was the study blinded or double-blinded? 
• What was the dropout rate and was the dropout rate explained?
• Was the timeline long enough to allow for all possible or relevant outcomes?
• Were the comparison groups treated equally? 
• Did the authors disclose funding sources?

There are various acronyms, organizations, and guidelines that are widely used to assess research study methodologies and quality. The EQUATOR Network provides detailed information and links for each study type.