Problems Encountered during Stepped-Wedge Cluster Randomised Trials and Potential Solutions: Systematic Review and Survey
This project delves into the complexities of conducting stepped-wedge cluster randomised trials, a specific kind of research method used to assess new policies or services in healthcare. These trials gradually introduce an intervention to different groups at different times, allowing researchers to understand its effects more clearly. However, they can be tricky to carry out effectively due to various challenges related to implementation, data collection, and analysis.
The research team aims to pinpoint these challenges through a detailed review of existing literature and by consulting with experienced researchers in the field. The ultimate goal is to develop a comprehensive guide that offers practical solutions, making it easier for future studies to be conducted more efficiently and effectively.
This guide is expected to save time and resources for those involved in these trials, ultimately improving the quality of health service research. The project will make significant contributions to the way health services are tested and improved, benefiting both healthcare providers and patients by ensuring new interventions are implemented smoothly and successfully.
Project lead / contact: Kathy Taylor — Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford
Website: OSF | Problems and reported solutions encountered during stepped-wedge cluster randomised trials: Narrative systematic review
ARC theme: Novel Methods to Aid and Evaluate Implementation