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Updated in [March 06th, 2023]

CERTaIN: Observational Studies and Registries is a course designed to provide an overview of the use of observational data in comparative effectiveness research (CER) and patient-centered outcomes research (PCOR). The course consists of 11 lectures, covering topics such as cancer registries and data linkage, SEER-Medicare and other data sources, overview of analytic methods, longitudinal data analysis, advanced methods in CER, survival analysis, analysis of medical cost data in observational studies, and healthcare policy research. This course is intended for anyone interested in CER and PCOR methods and is supported by grant number R25HS023214 from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

[Applications]
Upon completion of this course, participants should be able to apply the knowledge and skills acquired to design and conduct observational studies and registries, interpret the results of observational studies, and use health registries in comparative effectiveness research (CER). Participants should also be able to identify the characteristics of observational studies and understand the use of health registries in CER. Additionally, participants should be able to apply advanced methods in CER, analyze longitudinal data, and analyze medical cost data in observational studies. Finally, participants should be able to use the knowledge and skills acquired to conduct healthcare policy research.

[Career Paths]
1. Clinical Research Coordinator: Clinical research coordinators are responsible for the day-to-day management of clinical trials. They are responsible for recruiting and enrolling participants, collecting and managing data, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. The demand for clinical research coordinators is expected to grow as the need for clinical trials increases.

2. Data Analyst: Data analysts are responsible for analyzing data from observational studies and registries. They use statistical methods to identify patterns and trends in the data, and to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of treatments and interventions. The demand for data analysts is expected to grow as the need for evidence-based decision-making increases.

3. Health Policy Analyst: Health policy analysts are responsible for researching and analyzing health policy issues. They use data from observational studies and registries to inform policy decisions and to evaluate the effectiveness of health policies. The demand for health policy analysts is expected to grow as the need for evidence-based policymaking increases.

4. Epidemiologist: Epidemiologists are responsible for studying the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations. They use data from observational studies and registries to identify risk factors and to develop strategies for prevention and control of diseases. The demand for epidemiologists is expected to grow as the need for evidence-based public health interventions increases.

[Education Paths]
1. Master of Science in Health Informatics: This degree program focuses on the use of technology to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes. It covers topics such as data management, analytics, and health information systems. Students learn to use data to inform decisions and develop strategies to improve patient care. This degree is becoming increasingly important as healthcare organizations move towards a more data-driven approach to care.

2. Master of Science in Clinical Research: This degree program focuses on the design, implementation, and evaluation of clinical trials. Students learn to develop research protocols, analyze data, and interpret results. This degree is becoming increasingly important as the healthcare industry moves towards evidence-based practice.

3. Master of Science in Health Economics: This degree program focuses on the economic aspects of healthcare. Students learn to analyze the costs and benefits of healthcare services and policies. This degree is becoming increasingly important as healthcare organizations strive to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

4. Master of Science in Health Policy: This degree program focuses on the policy aspects of healthcare. Students learn to analyze the impact of healthcare policies on access, quality, and cost. This degree is becoming increasingly important as healthcare organizations strive to improve the quality of care and reduce disparities.