A five-phase model for clinical-outcome research

Through a variety of approaches, speech-language pathologists and audiologists have produced strong evidence that treatments are generally potent. However, we have largely ignored the accepted standards for clinical-outcome testing used throughout the broader research community (e.g., by other clinical disciplines, federal regulators, and third-party payers). Several clinical professions recognize a comprehensive model for organizing and scaffolding the many forms of clinical-outcome research. An adaptation of this five-phase model of clinical-outcome research is examined as a means for structuring forms of clinical research throughout audiology and speech-language pathology. Within the organizing structure, relationships become apparent between types and grades of scientific evidence and the processes underpinning evidence-based practice which ultimately lead to decisions on the status of intervention protocols. Learning outcomes: 1. Readers will be able to distinguish the phases of clinical-outcome research in a comprehensive model. 2. Readers will be able to identify relationships between the structure of the model and broadly recognized concepts associated with the terms 'efficacy' and 'effectiveness.' 3. Readers will be able to identify indicators of quality for controlled clinical trials. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.