Basics of Research Methodology
Abstract
Introduction: Research is a planned activity leading to generation of information that will help in answering a specific question. Medicine is said to be inherently experimental. Even the most widely accepted treatments need to be monitored and evaluated to determine whether they are effective for specific patients or for patients in general. This is one of the functions of medical research.1 Even the best proven prophylactic, diagnostic, and therapeutic methods must continuously be challenged through research for their efficacy, accessibility and quality. Another function is the development of new treatments, especially new investigational drugs, medical devices and surgical techniques. In other words, the purpose of medical research involving human subjects is to improve prophylactic, diagnostic and therapeutic procedures and understanding of the etiology and pathogenesis of disease.
Discussions: The research question, framing the protocol and designing the study and writing the report are all discussed.
Conclusions: Medical research, on the whole, has been very illuminating and has brought benefit to the scientific community, individuals and the society. Considering the major emphasis on methodological aspects, it is expected that the future research would be more efficient, and the benefits would be available to a larger segment of population at lower cost. Protection of rights, safety and wellbeing of trial subjects and credibility of data are two important points to be taken care of throughout the study.
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