CERTaIN: Mastering Comparative Effectiveness Research

This professional certificate program provides comprehensive training in Comparative Effectiveness Research (CER) and Patient-Centered Outcomes Research (PCOR) methodologies. Through five specialized courses, participants gain expertise in evaluating different medical treatments, interventions, and healthcare delivery approaches to determine which work best for which patients. The curriculum begins with an introduction to CER/PCOR methods, establishing foundational knowledge of these research approaches. Subsequent courses delve into knowledge synthesis through systematic reviews and their application to clinical decision-making, enabling participants to critically appraise research literature. The program covers diverse research methodologies including observational studies, health registries, pragmatic clinical trials, and healthcare delivery evaluations. Participants learn to identify and classify various clinical trial designs and understand the statistical methods used to analyze trial data. Throughout the program, there is a focus on patient-centered outcomes, ensuring research addresses questions relevant to patients and incorporates their perspectives and preferences. Taught by distinguished faculty from The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, including professors with extensive experience in clinical research and evidence-based medicine, this certificate prepares healthcare professionals to apply rigorous research methodologies to improve clinical decision-making and patient care.