"Review of studies designed to explain variation in disease outcome, particularly in relation to variations in patterns of practice"

This project is a systematic review of studies designed to explain variations in disease outcomes, particularly in relation to variations in patterns of practice, with the aim of contributing to improving the outcomes of care for cancer patients, by disseminating the results of the review to health care professionals and others involved in cancer care. the review should also provide a basis for further research in this area, in particular enabling work already undertaken in respect of certain specific tumour types to be extended to other areas and will investigate the sources of perceived variations in practice, both real and artefactual due to problems of data quality and accessibility.
The project will involve a systematic review and evaluation of the literature, including selection and evaluation of published reports and secondary analysis of their data, following predetermined selection criteria and analytical methodologies to be developed as part of the project.

Further information may be obtained from:

Dr Derek Pheby
Director
Unit of Applied Epidemiology
Faculty of Applied Sciences
University of the West of England
Frenchay Campus
Coldharbour Lane
Bristol   BS16 1QY
UK