HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH METHODS IN PHARMACY: Survey research: (1) Design, samples and response

Abstract

Abstract Social survey methodology is the most widely used approach by pharmacy practice researchers, accounting for a higher proportion of published papers than any other. Survey techniques have been used to address a range of research objectives in a variety of populations and settings. Extensive hand searches of published survey research have enabled a review of the issues and problems that social survey research presents when applied in pharmacy settings, and an exploration of how they have been addressed. This review is in two parts. This first part focuses on the research questions that have been addressed by survey methods, design of the studies, sampling frames and procedures, response rates and management of non-response. A second paper will discuss the development of survey instruments, and the issues of validity, reliability and generalisability.