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Research: Articulating Questions, Generating Hypotheses, and Choosing Study Designs

Mary p tully.

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Address correspondence to: Dr Mary P Tully, Manchester Pharmacy School, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT UK, e-mail: [email protected]

INTRODUCTION

Articulating a clear and concise research question is fundamental to conducting a robust and useful research study. Although “getting stuck into” the data collection is the exciting part of research, this preparation stage is crucial. Clear and concise research questions are needed for a number of reasons. Initially, they are needed to enable you to search the literature effectively. They will allow you to write clear aims and generate hypotheses. They will also ensure that you can select the most appropriate research design for your study.

This paper begins by describing the process of articulating clear and concise research questions, assuming that you have minimal experience. It then describes how to choose research questions that should be answered and how to generate study aims and hypotheses from your questions. Finally, it describes briefly how your question will help you to decide on the research design and methods best suited to answering it.

TURNING CURIOSITY INTO QUESTIONS

A research question has been described as “the uncertainty that the investigator wants to resolve by performing her study” 1 or “a logical statement that progresses from what is known or believed to be true to that which is unknown and requires validation”. 2 Developing your question usually starts with having some general ideas about the areas within which you want to do your research. These might flow from your clinical work, for example. You might be interested in finding ways to improve the pharmaceutical care of patients on your wards. Alternatively, you might be interested in identifying the best antihypertensive agent for a particular subgroup of patients. Lipowski 2 described in detail how work as a practising pharmacist can be used to great advantage to generate interesting research questions and hence useful research studies. Ideas could come from questioning received wisdom within your clinical area or the rationale behind quick fixes or workarounds, or from wanting to improve the quality, safety, or efficiency of working practice.

Alternatively, your ideas could come from searching the literature to answer a query from a colleague. Perhaps you could not find a published answer to the question you were asked, and so you want to conduct some research yourself. However, just searching the literature to generate questions is not to be recommended for novices—the volume of material can feel totally overwhelming.

Use a research notebook, where you regularly write ideas for research questions as you think of them during your clinical practice or after reading other research papers. It has been said that the best way to have a great idea is to have lots of ideas and then choose the best. The same would apply to research questions!

When you first identify your area of research interest, it is likely to be either too narrow or too broad. Narrow questions (such as “How is drug X prescribed for patients with condition Y in my hospital?”) are usually of limited interest to anyone other than the researcher. Broad questions (such as “How can pharmacists provide better patient care?”) must be broken down into smaller, more manageable questions. If you are interested in how pharmacists can provide better care, for example, you might start to narrow that topic down to how pharmacists can provide better care for one condition (such as affective disorders) for a particular subgroup of patients (such as teenagers). Then you could focus it even further by considering a specific disorder (depression) and a particular type of service that pharmacists could provide (improving patient adherence). At this stage, you could write your research question as, for example, “What role, if any, can pharmacists play in improving adherence to fluoxetine used for depression in teenagers?”

TYPES OF RESEARCH QUESTIONS

Being able to consider the type of research question that you have generated is particularly useful when deciding what research methods to use. There are 3 broad categories of question: descriptive, relational, and causal.

Descriptive

One of the most basic types of question is designed to ask systematically whether a phenomenon exists. For example, we could ask “Do pharmacists ‘care’ when they deliver pharmaceutical care?” This research would initially define the key terms (i.e., describing what “pharmaceutical care” and “care” are), and then the study would set out to look for the existence of care at the same time as pharmaceutical care was being delivered.

When you know that a phenomenon exists, you can then ask description and/or classification questions. The answers to these types of questions involve describing the characteristics of the phenomenon or creating typologies of variable subtypes. In the study above, for example, you could investigate the characteristics of the “care” that pharmacists provide. Classifications usually use mutually exclusive categories, so that various subtypes of the variable will have an unambiguous category to which they can be assigned. For example, a question could be asked as to “what is a pharmacist intervention” and a definition and classification system developed for use in further research.

When seeking further detail about your phenomenon, you might ask questions about its composition. These questions necessitate deconstructing a phenomenon (such as a behaviour) into its component parts. Within hospital pharmacy practice, you might be interested in asking questions about the composition of a new behavioural intervention to improve patient adherence, for example, “What is the detailed process that the pharmacist implicitly follows during delivery of this new intervention?”

After you have described your phenomena, you may then be interested in asking questions about the relationships between several phenomena. If you work on a renal ward, for example, you may be interested in looking at the relationship between hemoglobin levels and renal function, so your question would look something like this: “Are hemoglobin levels related to level of renal function?” Alternatively, you may have a categorical variable such as grade of doctor and be interested in the differences between them with regard to prescribing errors, so your research question would be “Do junior doctors make more prescribing errors than senior doctors?” Relational questions could also be asked within qualitative research, where a detailed understanding of the nature of the relationship between, for example, the gender and career aspirations of clinical pharmacists could be sought.

Once you have described your phenomena and have identified a relationship between them, you could ask about the causes of that relationship. You may be interested to know whether an intervention or some other activity has caused a change in your variable, and your research question would be about causality. For example, you may be interested in asking, “Does captopril treatment reduce blood pressure?” Generally, however, if you ask a causality question about a medication or any other health care intervention, it ought to be rephrased as a causality–comparative question. Without comparing what happens in the presence of an intervention with what happens in the absence of the intervention, it is impossible to attribute causality to the intervention. Although a causality question would usually be answered using a comparative research design, asking a causality–comparative question makes the research design much more explicit. So the above question could be rephrased as, “Is captopril better than placebo at reducing blood pressure?”

The acronym PICO has been used to describe the components of well-crafted causality–comparative research questions. 3 The letters in this acronym stand for Population, Intervention, Comparison, and Outcome. They remind the researcher that the research question should specify the type of participant to be recruited, the type of exposure involved, the type of control group with which participants are to be compared, and the type of outcome to be measured. Using the PICO approach, the above research question could be written as “Does captopril [ intervention ] decrease rates of cardiovascular events [ outcome ] in patients with essential hypertension [ population ] compared with patients receiving no treatment [ comparison ]?”

DECIDING WHETHER TO ANSWER A RESEARCH QUESTION

Just because a question can be asked does not mean that it needs to be answered. Not all research questions deserve to have time spent on them. One useful set of criteria is to ask whether your research question is feasible, interesting, novel, ethical, and relevant. 1 The need for research to be ethical will be covered in a later paper in the series, so is not discussed here. The literature review is crucial to finding out whether the research question fulfils the remaining 4 criteria.

Conducting a comprehensive literature review will allow you to find out what is already known about the subject and any gaps that need further exploration. You may find that your research question has already been answered. However, that does not mean that you should abandon the question altogether. It may be necessary to confirm those findings using an alternative method or to translate them to another setting. If your research question has no novelty, however, and is not interesting or relevant to your peers or potential funders, you are probably better finding an alternative.

The literature will also help you learn about the research designs and methods that have been used previously and hence to decide whether your potential study is feasible. As a novice researcher, it is particularly important to ask if your planned study is feasible for you to conduct. Do you or your collaborators have the necessary technical expertise? Do you have the other resources that will be needed? If you are just starting out with research, it is likely that you will have a limited budget, in terms of both time and money. Therefore, even if the question is novel, interesting, and relevant, it may not be one that is feasible for you to answer.

GENERATING AIMS AND HYPOTHESES

All research studies should have at least one research question, and they should also have at least one aim. As a rule of thumb, a small research study should not have more than 2 aims as an absolute maximum. The aim of the study is a broad statement of intention and aspiration; it is the overall goal that you intend to achieve. The wording of this broad statement of intent is derived from the research question. If it is a descriptive research question, the aim will be, for example, “to investigate” or “to explore”. If it is a relational research question, then the aim should state the phenomena being correlated, such as “to ascertain the impact of gender on career aspirations”. If it is a causal research question, then the aim should include the direction of the relationship being tested, such as “to investigate whether captopril decreases rates of cardiovascular events in patients with essential hypertension, relative to patients receiving no treatment”.

The hypothesis is a tentative prediction of the nature and direction of relationships between sets of data, phrased as a declarative statement. Therefore, hypotheses are really only required for studies that address relational or causal research questions. For the study above, the hypothesis being tested would be “Captopril decreases rates of cardiovascular events in patients with essential hypertension, relative to patients receiving no treatment”. Studies that seek to answer descriptive research questions do not test hypotheses, but they can be used for hypothesis generation. Those hypotheses would then be tested in subsequent studies.

CHOOSING THE STUDY DESIGN

The research question is paramount in deciding what research design and methods you are going to use. There are no inherently bad research designs. The rightness or wrongness of the decision about the research design is based simply on whether it is suitable for answering the research question that you have posed.

It is possible to select completely the wrong research design to answer a specific question. For example, you may want to answer one of the research questions outlined above: “Do pharmacists ‘care’ when they deliver pharmaceutical care?” Although a randomized controlled study is considered by many as a “gold standard” research design, such a study would just not be capable of generating data to answer the question posed. Similarly, if your question was, “Is captopril better than placebo at reducing blood pressure?”, conducting a series of in-depth qualitative interviews would be equally incapable of generating the necessary data. However, if these designs are swapped around, we have 2 combinations (pharmaceutical care investigated using interviews; captopril investigated using a randomized controlled study) that are more likely to produce robust answers to the questions.

The language of the research question can be helpful in deciding what research design and methods to use. Subsequent papers in this series will cover these topics in detail. For example, if the question starts with “how many” or “how often”, it is probably a descriptive question to assess the prevalence or incidence of a phenomenon. An epidemiological research design would be appropriate, perhaps using a postal survey or structured interviews to collect the data. If the question starts with “why” or “how”, then it is a descriptive question to gain an in-depth understanding of a phenomenon. A qualitative research design, using in-depth interviews or focus groups, would collect the data needed. Finally, the term “what is the impact of” suggests a causal question, which would require comparison of data collected with and without the intervention (i.e., a before–after or randomized controlled study).

CONCLUSIONS

This paper has briefly outlined how to articulate research questions, formulate your aims, and choose your research methods. It is crucial to realize that articulating a good research question involves considerable iteration through the stages described above. It is very common that the first research question generated bears little resemblance to the final question used in the study. The language is changed several times, for example, because the first question turned out not to be feasible and the second question was a descriptive question when what was really wanted was a causality question. The books listed in the “Further Reading” section provide greater detail on the material described here, as well as a wealth of other information to ensure that your first foray into conducting research is successful.

This article is the second in the CJHP Research Primer Series, an initiative of the CJHP Editorial Board and the CSHP Research Committee. The planned 2-year series is intended to appeal to relatively inexperienced researchers, with the goal of building research capacity among practising pharmacists. The articles, presenting simple but rigorous guidance to encourage and support novice researchers, are being solicited from authors with appropriate expertise.

Previous article in this series:

Bond CM. The research jigsaw: how to get started. Can J Hosp Pharm . 2014;67(1):28–30.

Competing interests: Mary Tully has received personal fees from the UK Renal Pharmacy Group to present a conference workshop on writing research questions and nonfinancial support (in the form of travel and accommodation) from the Dubai International Pharmaceuticals and Technologies Conference and Exhibition (DUPHAT) to present a workshop on conducting pharmacy practice research.

• 1. Hulley S, Cummings S, Browner W, Grady D, Newman T. Designing clinical research. 4th ed. Philadelphia (PA): Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins; 2013. [ Google Scholar ]
• 2. Lipowski EE. Developing great research questions. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2008;65(17):1667–70. doi: 10.2146/ajhp070276. [ DOI ] [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]
• 3. Richardson WS, Wilson MC, Nishikawa J, Hayward RS. The well-built clinical question: a key to evidence-based decisions. ACP J Club. 1995;123(3):A12–3. [ PubMed ] [ Google Scholar ]

Further Reading

• Cresswell J. Research design: qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods approaches. London (UK): Sage; 2009. [ Google Scholar ]
• Haynes RB, Sackett DL, Guyatt GH, Tugwell P. Clinical epidemiology: how to do clinical practice research. 3rd ed. Philadelphia (PA): Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins; 2006. [ Google Scholar ]
• Kumar R. Research methodology: a step-by-step guide for beginners. 3rd ed. London (UK): Sage; 2010. [ Google Scholar ]
• Smith FJ. Conducting your pharmacy practice research project. London (UK): Pharmaceutical Press; 2005. [ Google Scholar ]
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Defining the Question: Foreground & Background Questions

In order to most appropriately choose an information resource and craft a search strategy, it is necessary to consider what  kind  of question you are asking: a specific, narrow "foreground" question, or a broader background question that will help give context to your research?

Foreground Questions

A "foreground" question in health research is one that is relatively specific, and is usually best addressed by locating primary research evidence. 

Using a structured question framework can help you clearly define the concepts or variables that make up the specific research question. 

 Across most frameworks, you’ll often be considering:

• a who (who was studied - a population or sample)
• a what (what was done or examined - an intervention, an exposure, a policy, a program, a phenomenon)
• a how ([how] did the [what] affect the [who] - an outcome, an effect). 

PICO is the most common framework for developing a clinical research question, but multiple question frameworks exist.

PICO (Problem/Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome)

Appropriate for : clinical questions, often addressing the effect of an intervention/therapy/treatment

Example : For adolescents with type II diabetes (P) does the use of telehealth consultations (I) compared to in-person consultations  (C) improve blood sugar control  (O)?

Framing Different Types of Clinical Questions with PICO

Different types of clinical questions are suited to different syntaxes and phrasings, but all will clearly define the PICO elements.  The definitions and frames below may be helpful for organizing your question:

Intervention/Therapy

Questions addressing how a clinical issue, illness, or disability is treated.

"In__________________(P), how does__________________(I) compared to_________________(C) affect______________(O)?"

Questions that address the causes or origin of disease, the factors which produce or predispose toward a certain disease or disorder.

"Are_________________(P), who have_________________(I) compared with those without_________________(C) at_________________risk for/of_________________(O) over_________________(T)?" 

Questions addressing the act or process of identifying or determining the nature and cause of a disease or injury through evaluation.

In_________________(P) are/is_________________(I) compared with_________________(C) more accurate in diagnosing_________________(O)?

Prognosis/Prediction:

Questions addressing the prediction of the course of a disease.

In_________________(P), how does_________________(I) compared to_________________ (C) influence_________________(O)?

Questions addressing how one experiences a phenomenon or why we need to approach practice differently.

"How do_________________(P) with_________________(I) perceive_________________(O)?" 

Adapted from: Melnyk, B. M., & Fineout-Overholt, E. (2011). Evidence-based practice in nursing & healthcare: A guide to best practice. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Beyond PICO: Other Types of Question Frameworks

PICO is a useful framework for clinical research questions, but may not be appropriate for all kinds of reviews.  Also consider:

PEO (Population, Exposure, Outcome)

Appropriate for : describing association between particular exposures/risk factors and outcomes

Example : How do  preparation programs (E) influence the development of teaching competence  (O) among novice nurse educators  (P)?

SPIDER (Sample, Phenomenon of Interest, Design, Evaluation, Research Type)

Appropriate for : questions of experience or perspectives (questions that may be addressed by qualitative or mixed methods research)

Example : What are the experiences and perspectives (E) of  undergraduate nursing students  (S)  in clinical placements within prison healthcare settings (PI)?

SPICE (Setting, Perspective, Intervention/phenomenon of Interest, Comparison, Evaluation)

Appropriate for : evaluating the outcomes of a service, project, or intervention

Example : What are the impacts and best practices for workplace (S) transition support programs (I) for the retention (E) of newly-hired, new graduate nurses (P)?

PCC (Problem/population, Concept, Context)

Appropriate for : broader (scoping) questions

Example : How do nursing schools  (Context) teach, measure, and maintain nursing students ' (P)  technological literacy  (Concept))throughout their educational programs?

Background Questions

To craft a strong and reasonable foreground research question, it is important to have a firm understanding of the concepts of interest.  As such, it is often necessary to ask background questions, which ask for more general, foundational knowledge about a disorder, disease, patient population, policy issue, etc. 

For example, consider the PICO question outlined above:

"For adolescents with type II diabetes does the use of telehealth consultations compared to in-person consultations  improve blood sugar control ?

To best make sense of the literature that might address this PICO question, you would also need a deep understanding of background questions like:

• What are the unique barriers or challenges related to blood sugar management in adolescents with TII diabetes?
• What are the measures of effective blood sugar control?
• What kinds of interventions would fall under the umbrella of 'telehealth'?
• What are the qualitative differences in patient experience in telehealth versus in-person interactions with healthcare providers?
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How to Build and Assess the Quality of Healthcare-Related Research Questions

Sergio ramón gutiérrez ubeda.

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Address correspondence to Sergio Ramón Gutiérrez Ubeda ( [email protected] ).

Corresponding author.

Received 2021 Nov 2; Revised 2022 Mar 31; Accepted 2022 Apr 4; Collection date 2022 May.

This work is published under a CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 International License.

The objective of this article is to describe a simplified process for building and assessing the quality of healthcare-related research questions. This process consisted of three stages. The first stage aimed to select and explore a field of science. This field would be the area for which to identify outputs, such as units of analysis, variables, and objectives. The second stage aimed to write structured research questions, taking into account the outputs of the first stage. In general, the structure of research questions starts with interrogative adverbs (e.g., what and when ), auxiliary verbs (e.g., is there and are there ), or other auxiliaries (e.g., do , does , and did ); followed by nouns nominalized from verbs of research objectives, such as association , correlation , influence , causation , prediction , application ; research variables (e.g., risk factors, efficiency, effectiveness, and safety); and units of analysis (e.g., patients with hypertension and general hospitals). The third stage aimed to assess the quality and feasibility of the research questions against a set of criteria such as relevance, originality, generalizability, measurability, communicability, availability of resources, and ethical issues. By following the proposed simplified process, novice researchers may learn how to write structured research questions of sound scientific value.

Keywords: writing research questions, quality of research questions, healthcare

INTRODUCTION

A critical factor for the success of research projects is selecting research questions of good quality.[ 1 , 2 ] Research questions are meant to address knowledge gaps and generate hypotheses (e.g., unknown and controversial knowledge). Research projects answer such questions through the application of the scientific method.

Novice researchers who are inexperienced and untrained in the steps and procedures of the scientific method may not know how to develop a research question of high value in an efficient manner.[ 1 , 3 ]. Even if novice researchers try to self-educate themselves on the processes of identifying research questions, they might fail to learn well because of the large body of literature published on the subject. The task of building research questions is time-consuming and challenging.

The objective of this article is to provide a simplified process aimed to build and assess the quality of healthcare-related research questions. The process is explained in three stages, step by step, for novice researchers who will design and conduct research projects on their own and publish their results in peer-reviewed journals. An overview of the process is illustrated in Figure 1 .

Overview of process to build and assess the quality of healthcare-related research questions.

STAGE 1: SELECTING AND EXPLORING A SCIENCE FIELD

Step 1: selecting a science field.

The task of step 1 is to select one field of science to study. A science field, simply defined, is a subject area targeted for research purposes by scientific communities. Classifications of science fields are potential sources for identifying such fields. For example, the Qatar National Research Foundation[ 4 ] classifies science into broad fields such as natural sciences, engineering and technology, medical and health sciences, agricultural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. They further classify such broad fields into fields of intermediate size. For example, they classify the medical and health sciences field into health sciences, basic medicine, clinical medicine, medical biotechnology, and other medical sciences. Finally, they classify intermediate size fields into smaller fields. For example, they classify the health science field into hospital administration, health policy, nursing, nutrition, dietetics, public health, environmental health, tropical medicine, epidemiology, occupational health, social biomedical health, and so forth.

Whether you select the science field provided by someone else or from your own knowledge, look for evidence (e.g., articles published in peer-reviewed journals) supporting its scientific legitimacy. Often, this evidence is easy to find because scientists and editors from research centers and scientific journals publish definitions and descriptions of their fields of interest on web pages, in journal articles,[ 5 ] and on research agendas.[ 2 ] If such evidence is difficult to find, then try an internet keyword query, such as the following. First, identify the keywords or phrases that you believe are names of science fields. Then, if necessary, combine your keywords or phrases with one or more of the following terms: science , research , research agenda , research center , research at World Health Organization , international forum , and journal . Second, add quotation marks around keywords or phrases and enter them into an internet search engine. Finally, review a few (e.g., 10) of the first hits of the search engine results pages, especially those that match the query phrase, looking for evidence indicating the legitimacy of the science field. For example, I identified the keywords healthcare quality and combined it with the word journal into healthcare quality journal . Then I added quotation marks in the Google search engine. The search produced 13,800 pages. I found a peer-reviewed journal on healthcare quality among the first 10 pages. With this evidence, I felt confident about the legitimacy of the science field named healthcare quality . If there are various science fields of interest, prioritize one that you believe has social relevance, feasibility (e.g., technical, material, financial), and a low risk of ethical issues for research purposes.

Step 2: Identifying units of analysis (UAs)

The two tasks of step 2 are, first, to identify, from the perspective of the science field selected at step 1, potential UAs of interest for scientific inquiry, and second, to select one or a few of them. The UA is a definable and measurable entity, either natural or social, for which projects seek to answer research questions. There are two main purposes for developing a list of UAs. The first purpose is to promote a novice researcher's awareness that within a science field there are several types of UAs. In medicine, for example, this awareness would help the researcher to consider not only patients but also other types of UAs for research projects. The second purpose is to raise awareness of the possibility of building research questions for studies that target not only one but two or more UAs, as in multilevel analysis studies. Four tips on how to develop the list of UAs are given below.

The first tip is to identify UAs based on published lists or classification systems of UAs. For example, one published list of UAs includes control projects; single patients; single clinicians; clinics; populations of patients in nursing homes, hospital wards, microsystems, or entire hospitals.[ 6 ] Babbie[ 7 ] classifies UAs into five categories: individuals, groups, organizations, social interactions, and social artifacts. Lofland[ 8 ] classifies UAs for social science fields in cultural practices, episodes, encounters, roles, social and personal relationships, groups and cliques, organizations, settlements and habitats, and subcultures and lifestyles. Table 1 lists UAs related to the field healthcare quality.

Example units of analysis for the field of healthcare quality

Content based on Babbie.[ 7 ]

The second tip is to use specific phrases to distinguish between UAs. For example, the phrase individual humans includes all humans, but the phrase human with diabetes type I above 40 years old is specific enough to include only humans who meet those criteria. Other examples of criteria to distinguish between groups of humans would include a specific condition or disease such as hypertension, diabetes, dengue; behaviors such as physical activity, diet, sexual practices; functions and capabilities such as attention, memory, and judgment; and sociodemographic characteristics such as age, ethnicity, religion, and marital status.

The third tip is to list several UAs that are homogeneous, especially when there is interest in analyzing consolidated data, as in quantitative studies. A hint to help understand the homogeneous population UA would be to examine the standard “production” process of each unit. On one hand, UAs such as goods (e.g., vaccines) mass produced with standardized industrial processes are quite homogenous. On the other hand, UAs such as social constructs (e.g., neighborhoods) are usually not homogenous because they grow spontaneously by social processes, often with few limitations and flexible constraints. Neighborhoods, for example, might vary in size, social composition, economic status, and so on, even neighborhoods that have grown in the same city.

The fourth tip is to include UAs that represent single, small, and large natural or social entities to build research questions for qualitative and quantitative studies. For example, the World Health Organization is a single entity, the number of continents in the world would be a small number, whereas the number of cities in the world would be a large number. In quantitative studies, the inferential power of statistical analysis of a small sample of UAs may be compromised.

The second part of step 2 is selecting one or a few UAs to focus on developing in step 3, which is to list variables related to each UA. Prioritize UAs of social relevance, feasibility (e.g., technical and financial), and low risk of ethical issues for research purposes.

Step 3: Identifying research variables and phenomena

The task of step 3 is to create a list of variables and phenomena related to each UA selected in step 2. Variables are measurable features of UAs whose values would vary depending on changing situations. Phenomena describe the meaning, interpretation, or explanation related to variables of the UA.[ 9 , 10 ]

At this step, researchers should be aware of the broad array of variables and phenomena related to each UA. A research project might be conducted with one, two, or more variables, depending on what research questions the project seeks to answer. With a longer list of variables, there are more possibilities to build univariate, bivariate, and multivariate research-related questions. Table 2 illustrates an example of UAs and variables related to the field of healthcare quality. Below are three tips on how to develop a list of variables and phenomena.

Example units of analysis and variables for the field of healthcare quality

PSC: patient safety culture.

The first tip is to search variables and phenomena, one by one, through an extensive literature search for relevant scientific publications. During your search, keep in mind that publications of quantitative approaches often use the term variable , but publications of qualitative approaches might use other terms (e.g., phenomena ).[ 9 , 10 ] This difference might be because “qualitative research aims to understand the how and why of certain behaviors, decisions, and individual experiences”[ 9 ] and such understanding is not measured numerically.

The second tip is to identify a useful framework to classify different variables. For example, Lofland's[ 8 ] typology of questions might help to classify variables and phenomena by type, frequency, magnitude, structure, process, cause, consequence, and agency. Another classification, promoted from the field of quality management systems,[ 11 ] includes six categories of variables: physical (e.g., physical activity, safety of drugs, effectiveness of surgical procedures); sensory (e.g., vision, smell, hearing); behavioral (e.g., courtesy, honesty, veracity); temporal (e.g., punctuality, reliability, availability); ergonomic (e.g., physiological characteristics or related to human safety); and functional (e.g., speed of emergency care).

The third tip is to consider each variable, either simple or complex, as one unit. Simple variables can be measured with just one indicator (i.e., age, sex). Complex variables are usually divided into several dimensions (e.g., patient safety culture may be divided into teamwork and communication), each of which might be measured with multiple indicators. If a researcher adds complex variables and their dimensions as separate units in the same list, the total number of variables becomes inflated, which may overcomplicate the analysis.

Step 4: Identifying possible research objectives

The task of step 4 is to develop a list of possible objectives of interest for the research project. A research objective is the expected outcome that a research project seeks to achieve. Research objectives clarify whether a project seeks to describe one or more variables and phenomena or to study how two or more variables relate to each other (e.g., exposure, intervention, mediating, and outcome variables).

Objectives and research questions are closely related. Thus, developing a list of objectives would help develop a list of research questions. Objectives are often classified into generic categories, such as exploratory, descriptive, correlational, explicative, predictive, and applicative. Exploratory objectives aim to discover, understand, and characterize phenomena and their interactions with other phenomena. Descriptive objectives aim to count frequencies of variables without making comparisons. Correlational objectives aim to assess how one or more variables behave while interacting with each other. Explicative objectives aim to study cause and effect relationships among variables. Predictive objectives aim to forecast the behavior of one variable through understanding the behavior of other variables. Applicative objectives aim to study the effectiveness of interventions on changing other variables' status and behaviors. Table 3 illustrates an example of a UAs with variables, objectives, and research questions related to healthcare quality.

Examples of research questions related to hospitals (UA) and healthcare quality (science field)

UA: units of analysis; PSC: patient safety culture.

STAGE 2: WRITING STRUCTURED RESEARCH QUESTIONS

The task of the second stage is to build a list of possible research questions for the project. A research question is “a logical statement that progresses from what is known or believed to be true to that which is unknown and requires validation.”[ 12 ] A research question clarifies the specific knowledge that a research project expects to discover through the study of one or a few variables or phenomena related to one or a few UAs.

In general, the structure of research questions would include interrogative adverbs (e.g., what, why, who, when, and where), auxiliary verbs (e.g., is there and are there), or other auxiliaries (e.g., do, does, and did); nouns nominalized from verbs of research objectives, such as association, correlation, causation, prediction, and application; research variables (e.g., incidence, prevalence, risk factors, causes, effects, and interventions); and UAs (e.g., patients with hypertension, mothers, pregnant women with diabetes, and general hospitals). Research questions related to prognosis and relationships between interventions and outcomes would be structured in formats such as those outlined in Table 4 .[ 1 , 3 , 9 , 10 ]

Examples of framework used to write research questions

Content based on Fandino,[ 1 ] Thabane et al,[ 3 ] Cooke et al,[ 9 ] and Cañón and Buitrago-Gómez.[ 10 ]

To write structured research questions, use the outputs of the first stage (e.g., UA list, variables, and objectives) and general or specific formats for structuring research questions. Table 3 includes examples of research questions.

STAGE 3: ASSESSING AND SELECTING RESEARCH QUESTIONS

Step 1: assessing the quality and feasibility of a research question.

The task of this step is to assess the quality of the research question against a set of criteria, such as those shown in Figure 2 . A more detailed discussion on such criteria is provided elsewhere.[ 2 , 3 , 13 , 14 ] Other criteria to assess the quality of research questions include answerability, effectiveness, innovativeness, implementation, burden reduction, and equity.,[ 2 ] Researchers may also use criteria based on the acronyms, FINER (feasible, interesting, novel, ethical, and relevant)[ 1 , 3 ] and I-SMART (important, specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and timely).[ 14 ] Rank the quality and feasibility of the criteria using a scale of 1–10 points (i.e., 10 being highest quality and 1 being lowest). Remember to ensure that each criterion is scored using the same scale. Finally, calculate the total score for the research question.

Examples of criteria used to assess the quality of research questions.

Step 2: Selecting the research question

Select the research questions that score highest in the quality assessment from the previous step. Avoid selecting high-risk ethical questions, regardless of other criteria that had high scores. Finally, if answering a research question is not feasible (e.g., too expensive or complex) with the available resources, then that question might be kept on standby until the circumstances for feasibility improve.

Building a research question of high quality just by guessing is unlikely, especially for novice researchers who do not have any training in the scientific method.

The proposed simplified process aimed to help novice researchers write structured, high quality research questions. The key concepts and framework of the scientific method presented illustrate the myriad of questions that researchers can develop in any field of science. The importance of using a well-known set of criteria to assess the quality of research questions was highlighted. This simplified process teaches novice researchers how to build research questions of sound scientific value in a systematic way.

Funding Statement

Source of Support: None.

Conflict of interest: None.

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Creating a Good Research Question

• Advice & Growth
• Process in Practice

Successful translation of research begins with a strong question. How do you get started? How do good research questions evolve? And where do you find inspiration to generate good questions in the first place?  It’s helpful to understand existing frameworks, guidelines, and standards, as well as hear from researchers who utilize these strategies in their own work.

In the fall and winter of 2020, Naomi Fisher, MD, conducted 10 interviews with clinical and translational researchers at Harvard University and affiliated academic healthcare centers, with the purpose of capturing their experiences developing good research questions. The researchers featured in this project represent various specialties, drawn from every stage of their careers. Below you will find clips from their interviews and additional resources that highlight how to get started, as well as helpful frameworks and factors to consider. Additionally, visit the Advice & Growth section to hear candid advice and explore the Process in Practice section to hear how researchers have applied these recommendations to their published research.

• Naomi Fisher, MD , is associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School (HMS), and clinical staff at Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH). Fisher is founder and director of Hypertension Services and the Hypertension Specialty Clinic at the BWH, where she is a renowned endocrinologist. She serves as a faculty director for communication-related Boundary-Crossing Skills for Research Careers webinar sessions and the Writing and Communication Center .
• Christopher Gibbons, MD , is associate professor of neurology at HMS, and clinical staff at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) and Joslin Diabetes Center. Gibbons’ research focus is on peripheral and autonomic neuropathies.
• Clare Tempany-Afdhal, MD , is professor of radiology at HMS and the Ferenc Jolesz Chair of Research, Radiology at BWH. Her major areas of research are MR imaging of the pelvis and image- guided therapy.
• David Sykes, MD, PhD , is assistant professor of medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), he is also principal investigator at the Sykes Lab at MGH. His special interest area is rare hematologic conditions.
• Elliot Israel, MD , is professor of medicine at HMS, director of the Respiratory Therapy Department, the director of clinical research in the Pulmonary and Critical Care Medical Division and associate physician at BWH. Israel’s research interests include therapeutic interventions to alter asthmatic airway hyperactivity and the role of arachidonic acid metabolites in airway narrowing.
• Jonathan Williams, MD, MMSc , is assistant professor of medicine at HMS, and associate physician at BWH. He focuses on endocrinology, specifically unravelling the intricate relationship between genetics and environment with respect to susceptibility to cardiometabolic disease.
• Junichi Tokuda, PhD , is associate professor of radiology at HMS, and is a research scientist at the Department of Radiology, BWH. Tokuda is particularly interested in technologies to support image-guided “closed-loop” interventions. He also serves as a principal investigator leading several projects funded by the National Institutes of Health and industry.
• Osama Rahma, MD , is assistant professor of medicine at HMS and clinical staff member in medical oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI). Rhama is currently a principal investigator at the Center for Immuno-Oncology and Gastroenterology Cancer Center at DFCI. His research focus is on drug development of combinational immune therapeutics.
• Sharmila Dorbala, MD, MPH , is professor of radiology at HMS and clinical staff at BWH in cardiovascular medicine and radiology. She is also the president of the American Society of Nuclear Medicine. Dorbala’s specialty is using nuclear medicine for cardiovascular discoveries.
• Subha Ramani, PhD, MBBS, MMed , is associate professor of medicine at HMS, as well as associate physician in the Division of General Internal Medicine and Primary Care at BWH. Ramani’s scholarly interests focus on innovative approaches to teaching, learning and assessment of clinical trainees, faculty development in teaching, and qualitative research methods in medical education.
• Ursula Kaiser, MD , is professor at HMS and chief of the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Hypertension, and senior physician at BWH. Kaiser’s research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms by which pulsatile gonadotropin-releasing hormone regulates the expression of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone genes.

Insights on Creating a Good Research Question

Play Junichi Tokuda video

Play Ursula Kaiser video

Start Successfully: Build the Foundation of a Good Research Question

Start Successfully Resources

Ideation in Device Development: Finding Clinical Need Josh Tolkoff, MS A lecture explaining the critical importance of identifying a compelling clinical need before embarking on a research project. Play Ideation in Device Development video .

Radical Innovation Jeff Karp, PhD This ThinkResearch podcast episode focuses on one researcher’s approach using radical simplicity to break down big problems and questions. Play Radical Innovation .

Using Healthcare Data: How can Researchers Come up with Interesting Questions? Anupam Jena, MD, PhD Another ThinkResearch podcast episode addresses how to discover good research questions by using a backward design approach which involves analyzing big data and allowing the research question to unfold from findings. Play Using Healthcare Data .

Important Factors: Consider Feasibility and Novelty

Refining Your Research Question 

Play video of Clare Tempany-Afdhal

Play Elliott Israel video

Frameworks and Structure: Evaluate Research Questions Using Tools and Techniques

Frameworks and Structure Resources

Designing Clinical Research Hulley et al. A comprehensive and practical guide to clinical research, including the FINER framework for evaluating research questions. Learn more about the book .

Translational Medicine Library Guide Queens University Library An introduction to popular frameworks for research questions, including FINER and PICO. Review translational medicine guide .

Asking a Good T3/T4 Question  Niteesh K. Choudhry, MD, PhD This video explains the PICO framework in practice as participants in a workshop propose research questions that compare interventions. Play Asking a Good T3/T4 Question video

Introduction to Designing & Conducting Mixed Methods Research An online course that provides a deeper dive into mixed methods’ research questions and methodologies. Learn more about the course

Network and Support: Find the Collaborators and Stakeholders to Help Evaluate Research Questions

Network & Support Resource

Bench-to-bedside, Bedside-to-bench Christopher Gibbons, MD In this lecture, Gibbons shares his experience of bringing research from bench to bedside, and from bedside to bench. His talk highlights the formation and evolution of research questions based on clinical need. Play Bench-to-bedside. 

Research Topics & Ideas: Public Health

I If you’re just starting out exploring public health and/or epidemiology-related topics for your dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research by providing a hearty list of research ideas , including examples from recent studies in public health and epidemiology.

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . These topic ideas provided here are intentionally broad and generic , so keep in mind that you will need to develop them further. Nevertheless, they should inspire some ideas for your project.

To develop a suitable research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan to fill that gap. If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Public Health-Related Research Topics

• Evaluating the impact of community-based obesity prevention programs in urban areas.
• Analyzing the effectiveness of public smoking bans on respiratory health outcomes.
• Investigating the role of health education in reducing the prevalence of HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa.
• The impact of air pollution on asthma rates in industrial cities.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of school nutrition programs on childhood obesity rates.
• The role of public health policies in addressing mental health stigma.
• Analyzing the impact of clean water access on infectious disease rates in rural communities.
• The effectiveness of needle exchange programs in reducing the spread of hepatitis C.
• Investigating the impact of social determinants on maternal and child health in low-income neighborhoods.
• The role of digital health interventions in managing chronic diseases.
• Analyzing the effectiveness of workplace wellness programs on employee health and productivity.
• The impact of urban green spaces on community mental health.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns in preventing outbreaks of infectious diseases.
• The role of public health initiatives in reducing alcohol-related harm.
• Analyzing the impact of aging populations on healthcare systems.
• Analyzing the impact of urbanization on mental health disorders in metropolitan areas.
• The effectiveness of telemedicine services in improving healthcare access in remote regions.
• Investigating the health impacts of electronic waste recycling practices.
• The role of health literacy in managing non-communicable diseases in aging populations.
• Evaluating the public health response to opioid addiction in rural communities.
• Analyzing the relationship between housing quality and respiratory illnesses.
• The effectiveness of community engagement in improving reproductive health services.
• Investigating the health effects of long-term exposure to low-level environmental radiation.
• The role of public health campaigns in reducing the prevalence of tobacco use among teenagers.
• Analyzing the impact of food deserts on nutritional outcomes in urban communities.

Epidemiology Research Ideas (Continued)

• Investigating the epidemiology of antibiotic-resistant infections in hospital settings.
• The impact of climate change on the spread of vector-borne diseases.
• Evaluating the factors contributing to the rise in type 2 diabetes prevalence.
• Analyzing the epidemiology of mental health disorders in conflict zones.
• The role of epidemiological surveillance in pandemic preparedness and response.
• Investigating the link between environmental exposures and the incidence of childhood cancers.
• The impact of dietary patterns on the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of intervention strategies in controlling obesity epidemics.
• Analyzing the spread and control of zoonotic diseases in rural communities.
• The role of genetic factors in the epidemiology of autoimmune diseases.
• Investigating the socio-economic disparities in cancer incidence and outcomes.
• The impact of urbanization on the epidemiology of infectious diseases.
• Evaluating the public health consequences of occupational exposures to hazardous substances.
• Analyzing the trends and determinants of mental health disorders among adolescents.
• The role of lifestyle factors in the epidemiology of neurodegenerative diseases.
• Investigating the patterns of mental health service utilization during economic recessions.
• The epidemiology of sports-related concussions in youth athletics.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of public health interventions in reducing the spread of tuberculosis in high-risk populations.
• Analyzing the geographic distribution of Lyme disease in relation to climate change.
• The role of international travel in the spread of emerging infectious diseases.
• Investigating the demographic predictors of chronic kidney disease in population-based studies.
• The epidemiological impact of air pollution on asthma and other respiratory conditions.
• Evaluating the long-term health effects of exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals.
• Analyzing the incidence and risk factors of post-traumatic stress disorder in first responders.
• The role of socioeconomic status in the prevalence and management of diabetes.

Recent Studies: Public Health & Epidemiology

While the ideas we’ve presented above are a decent starting point for finding a research topic, they are fairly generic and non-specific. So, it helps to look at actual studies in the public health and epidemiology space to see how this all comes together in practice.

Below, we’ve included a selection of recent studies to help refine your thinking. These are actual studies,  so they can provide some useful insight as to what a research topic looks like in practice.

• Tutorials in population neuroimaging: Using epidemiology in neuroimaging research (Godina et al., 2022)
• Application of Big Data in Digital Epidemiology (Naaz & Siddiqui, 2022)
• Response to comment on: Incidence of ocular and systemic disease affecting visual function among state bus drivers (Kohli et al., 2022)
• Why epidemiology is incomplete without qualitative and mixed methods (Lane-Fall, 2023)
• Teaching epidemiology: An overview of strategies and considerations (Hossain, 2022)
• Social Epidemiology: Past, Present, and Future (Roux, 2022)
• Population health assessment project: An innovative strategy for teaching principles of epidemiology (Keen et al., 2022)
• The functions of veterinary epidemiology in public health (Shaffi, 2023)
• Readying the Applied Epidemiology Workforce for Emerging Areas of
• Public Health Practice (Daly et al., 2022)
• Some Social Epidemiologic Lessons from the COVID-19 Pandemic (Schnake-Mahl & Bilal, 2023)
• The Filth Disease: Typhoid Fever and the Practices of Epidemiology in Victorian England by Jacob Steere-Williams (review) (Steere-Williams et al., 2022)
• Epidemiology of Adult Obesity, Measurements, Global Prevalence and Risk Factors (Orukwowu, 2022).
• Which disciplines form digital public health, and how do they relate to each other? (Pan, 2022)
• Information Flow and Data Gaps in COVID-19 Recording and Reporting at National and Provincial Levels in Indonesia (Barsasella et al., 2022). Epidemiology Blog of Neal D. Goldstein, PhD, MBI (Goldstein, 2023)
• Sensitivity analysis of SEIR epidemic model of Covid 19 spread in Indonesia (Rangkuti et al., 2022)

As you can see, these research topics are a lot more focused than the generic topic ideas we presented earlier. So, for you to develop a high-quality research topic, you’ll need to get specific and laser-focused on a specific context with specific variables of interest.  In the video below, we explore some other important things you’ll need to consider when crafting your research topic.

Get 1-On-1 Help

If you’re still unsure about how to find a quality research topic, check out our Research Topic Kickstarter service, which is the perfect starting point for developing a unique, well-justified research topic.

Find The Perfect Research Topic

How To Choose A Research Topic: 5 Key Criteria

How To Choose A Research Topic Step-By-Step Tutorial With Examples + Free Topic...

Research Topics & Ideas: Automation & Robotics

A comprehensive list of automation and robotics-related research topics. Includes free access to a webinar and research topic evaluator.

Research Topics & Ideas: Sociology

A comprehensive list of sociology-related research topics. Includes free access to a webinar and research topic evaluator.

Research Topics & Ideas: Neuroscience

A comprehensive list of neuroscience-related research topics. Includes free access to a webinar and research topic evaluator.

Research Topics & Ideas: Journalism

A comprehensive list of journalism-related research topics. Includes free access to a webinar and research topic evaluator.

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Healthcare Research Paper Topics

In this page, we provide a comprehensive list of healthcare research paper topics , expert advice on selecting compelling topics, guidance on writing an impactful research paper, and information about iResearchNet’s writing services. By exploring these resources, students in the health sciences field can choose relevant and significant healthcare research paper topics, develop their papers effectively, and access professional writing assistance to excel in their academic endeavors.

100 Healthcare Research Paper Topics

The field of healthcare research encompasses a vast array of topics that are crucial for understanding, improving, and transforming healthcare practices. As students in the health sciences, you have the opportunity to explore these diverse areas and contribute to the knowledge base of healthcare research. This comprehensive list aims to inspire and guide you in selecting healthcare research paper topics that align with your interests and academic goals. The topics are divided into ten distinct categories, each containing ten thought-provoking and relevant research ideas. Let this list serve as a springboard for your exploration and a catalyst for impactful research in the dynamic field of healthcare.

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1. Healthcare Policy and Management

• The Impact of Health Policies on Access to Care
• Assessing the Effectiveness of Health Insurance Programs
• Analyzing the Role of Healthcare Leadership in Quality Improvement
• Exploring Strategies for Healthcare Cost Containment
• Investigating the Relationship Between Healthcare Regulations and Patient Outcomes
• Evaluating the Impact of Electronic Health Records on Healthcare Delivery
• Examining the Role of Public-Private Partnerships in Healthcare
• Analyzing the Influence of Political Factors on Healthcare Decision-Making
• Assessing the Ethical Implications of Resource Allocation in Healthcare
• Investigating the Effectiveness of Health Promotion Programs in Primary Care Settings

2. Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues

• Analyzing the Ethical Challenges of Healthcare Research Involving Human Subjects
• Exploring the Impact of Cultural and Religious Beliefs on Healthcare Decision-Making
• Examining Legal Issues in End-of-Life Care and Advance Directives
• Investigating the Ethical Implications of Genetic Testing and Personalized Medicine
• Assessing the Ethical Dilemmas in Access to Experimental Treatments
• Exploring the Role of Ethics Committees in Healthcare Organizations
• Analyzing the Intersection of Healthcare Ethics and Artificial Intelligence
• Evaluating the Legal and Ethical Implications of Telemedicine
• Investigating the Ethics of Healthcare Resource Allocation during Public Health Emergencies
• Examining the Legal and Ethical Issues of Patient Privacy in the Digital Age

3. Healthcare Technology and Innovation

• Assessing the Impact of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare Diagnostics
• Exploring the Potential of Wearable Devices for Remote Patient Monitoring
• Investigating the Role of Big Data Analytics in Healthcare Decision-Making
• Analyzing the Use of Robotics in Surgery and Patient Care
• Examining the Impact of Telehealth on Healthcare Access and Delivery
• Evaluating the Benefits and Challenges of Electronic Health Records Implementation
• Exploring the Applications of Virtual Reality in Healthcare Education and Training
• Investigating the Role of Mobile Health Applications in Health Behavior Change
• Assessing the Potential of Blockchain Technology in Healthcare Data Security
• Analyzing the Ethical and Social Implications of Genetic Engineering in Healthcare

4. Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety

• Evaluating the Impact of Patient-Centered Care on Health Outcomes
• Analyzing the Role of Quality Improvement Initiatives in Reducing Medical Errors
• Assessing the Effectiveness of Medication Safety Practices in Healthcare Settings
• Exploring Strategies to Improve Healthcare Communication and Interprofessional Collaboration
• Investigating the Relationship Between Nursing Workforce and Patient Safety
• Examining the Impact of Clinical Practice Guidelines on Healthcare Quality
• Analyzing the Role of Patient Engagement in Enhancing Healthcare Quality
• Evaluating the Effectiveness of Lean Six Sigma in Healthcare Process Improvement
• Exploring the Role of Health Information Technology in Enhancing Patient Safety
• Investigating the Influence of Organizational Culture on Healthcare Quality and Safety

5. Mental Health and Psychological Well-being

• Analyzing the Impact of Stigma on Mental Health Help-Seeking Behavior
• Exploring the Effectiveness of Psychotherapy Approaches in Treating Mental Health Disorders
• Assessing the Role of Early Intervention in Preventing Mental Health Disorders
• Investigating the Relationship Between Adverse Childhood Experiences and Mental Health Outcomes
• Examining the Intersection of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Disorders
• Evaluating the Impact of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Psychological Well-being
• Exploring the Role of Social Support in Mental Health Recovery
• Analyzing the Effectiveness of Mental Health Awareness Campaigns
• Investigating the Influence of Cultural Factors on Mental Health Help-Seeking Behavior
• Examining the Mental Health Needs and Challenges among Specific Populations (e.g., LGBTQ+, Veterans, Refugees)

6. Chronic Diseases and their Management

• Assessing the Impact of Lifestyle Factors on Chronic Disease Prevention and Management
• Exploring the Role of Community-Based Interventions in Chronic Disease Control
• Investigating the Relationship Between Social Determinants of Health and Chronic Disease Burden
• Analyzing the Use of Digital Health Technologies in Chronic Disease Management
• Examining the Impact of Health Literacy on Chronic Disease Outcomes
• Evaluating the Effectiveness of Self-Management Programs for Chronic Conditions
• Exploring the Role of Healthcare Providers in Chronic Disease Prevention and Management
• Analyzing the Impact of Health Policies on Chronic Disease Prevention Efforts
• Investigating the Relationship Between Mental Health and Chronic Disease Management
• Examining the Disparities in Access to Chronic Disease Care and Treatment

7. Healthcare Disparities and Access to Care

• Analyzing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Healthcare Access and Quality
• Exploring the Role of Socioeconomic Factors in Healthcare Disparities
• Assessing the Impact of Geographic Location on Healthcare Access and Health Outcomes
• Investigating Gender Disparities in Healthcare Utilization and Treatment
• Examining the Influence of Health Insurance Status on Healthcare Disparities
• Evaluating the Effectiveness of Culturally Competent Care in Reducing Disparities
• Exploring the Relationship Between Language Barriers and Healthcare Access
• Analyzing the Impact of Implicit Bias on Healthcare Disparities
• Investigating the Role of Health Literacy in Healthcare Disparities
• Examining the Disparities in Mental Health Services and Access to Mental Healthcare

8. Healthcare Education and Training

• Assessing the Effectiveness of Simulation-Based Training in Healthcare Education
• Exploring the Role of Interprofessional Education in Improving Collaborative Practice
• Investigating the Impact of Technology-Enhanced Learning in Healthcare Education
• Analyzing the Use of Gamification in Healthcare Training and Skill Development
• Examining the Role of Continuing Education in Enhancing Healthcare Providers’ Competence
• Evaluating the Effectiveness of Mentorship Programs in Healthcare Education
• Exploring Strategies to Address Cultural Competence in Healthcare Education
• Analyzing the Role of Reflective Practice in Healthcare Professional Development
• Investigating the Use of Team-Based Learning in Healthcare Education
• Examining the Impact of Experiential Learning in Healthcare Training Programs

9. Public Health and Preventive Medicine

• Assessing the Impact of Vaccination Programs on Public Health Outcomes
• Exploring the Role of Health Promotion Campaigns in Preventing Non-communicable Diseases
• Investigating the Effectiveness of Community-Based Interventions in Disease Prevention
• Analyzing the Impact of Environmental Factors on Public Health
• Examining the Role of Social Determinants of Health in Health Disparities
• Evaluating the Effectiveness of Public Health Policies in Tobacco Control
• Exploring Strategies for Preventing and Managing Infectious Diseases
• Analyzing the Role of Health Education in Promoting Healthy Lifestyles
• Investigating the Influence of Media on Public Health Perceptions and Behaviors
• Examining the Challenges and Opportunities in Global Health Initiatives

10. Emerging Topics in Healthcare Research

• Assessing the Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
• Exploring the Role of Precision Medicine in Personalized Healthcare
• Investigating the Impact of Genomic Research on Healthcare Delivery
• Analyzing the Use of Telemedicine in Rural and Underserved Areas
• Examining the Integration of Traditional and Complementary Medicine in Healthcare
• Evaluating the Potential of Digital Therapeutics in Disease Management
• Exploring the Ethical Considerations of Gene Editing Technologies in Healthcare
• Analyzing the Influence of Social Media on Healthcare Decision-Making
• Investigating the Role of Health Information Exchange in Coordinated Care
• Examining the Implications of Health Equity in Healthcare Research and Practice

This comprehensive list of healthcare research paper topics encompasses a wide range of areas within the healthcare field. Each category offers diverse research ideas that can inspire students in the health sciences to explore pressing issues, propose innovative solutions, and contribute to the advancement of healthcare knowledge. Whether you are interested in healthcare policy, ethics, technology, mental health, chronic diseases, healthcare disparities, education, public health, or emerging healthcare research paper topics, this list serves as a valuable resource to kickstart your research journey. Choose a topic that resonates with you, aligns with your academic goals, and enables you to make a meaningful impact in the field of healthcare research. Remember, the pursuit of knowledge and the drive to improve healthcare practices are at the heart of your journey as a student in the health sciences.

Choosing Healthcare Research Paper Topics

Choosing the right healthcare research paper topic is a crucial step in conducting a successful and impactful study. With the vast array of healthcare issues and areas to explore, it can be challenging to narrow down your focus. To help you navigate this process effectively, we have compiled expert advice and ten essential tips for selecting compelling healthcare research paper topics. Consider these insights as you embark on your research journey in the dynamic field of healthcare:

• Follow Your Passion : Choose a topic that genuinely interests you. Passion and enthusiasm will drive your motivation, ensuring that you remain engaged throughout the research process.
• Stay Informed : Keep up with the latest healthcare trends, emerging issues, and ongoing debates. Stay informed through reputable sources, academic journals, conferences, and professional networks to identify current and relevant research gaps.
• Identify a Research Gap : Conduct a thorough literature review to identify areas where there is a need for further research. Look for unanswered questions, controversies, or gaps in knowledge that you can address in your study.
• Consider Relevance and Significance : Choose a topic that is relevant to current healthcare challenges or contributes to improving healthcare practices, policies, or patient outcomes. Aim for a topic that has real-world implications and societal impact.
• Delve into Specific Areas : Narrow down your focus by selecting a specific aspect or subtopic within the broad field of healthcare. This allows for a more focused and in-depth analysis of the chosen area.
• Consult with Your Advisor or Faculty : Seek guidance from your research advisor or faculty members who specialize in healthcare research. They can provide valuable insights, help you refine your topic, and direct you to relevant literature and resources.
• Brainstorm with Peers : Engage in discussions with your peers and classmates to explore different perspectives and gain inspiration. Collaborative brainstorming sessions can generate new ideas and offer fresh insights.
• Consider Ethical Considerations : Take ethical considerations into account when selecting a healthcare research topic. Ensure that your research adheres to ethical guidelines and respects the rights and privacy of participants, especially in studies involving human subjects.
• Think Interdisciplinary : Consider interdisciplinary approaches to healthcare research. Explore how other disciplines, such as sociology, psychology, economics, or technology, intersect with healthcare, providing a broader perspective and enhancing the depth of your research.
• Feasibility and Available Resources : Assess the feasibility of your chosen topic, considering the resources, time, and data availability required for your research. Ensure that you have access to relevant data sources, research tools, and necessary support to carry out your study effectively.

By following these expert tips, you will be equipped to choose a healthcare research paper topic that aligns with your interests, is relevant to current healthcare challenges, and has the potential to make a meaningful impact in the field. Remember, selecting the right topic sets the foundation for a successful research endeavor, allowing you to contribute to the advancement of healthcare knowledge and practices.

How to Write a Healthcare Research Paper

Writing a healthcare research paper requires careful planning, organization, and attention to detail. To help you navigate the intricacies of the writing process, we have compiled ten essential tips to guide you towards crafting a well-written and impactful healthcare research paper. Follow these expert recommendations to enhance the quality and effectiveness of your research paper:

• Develop a Clear Research Question : Start by formulating a clear and concise research question that will serve as the central focus of your paper. Ensure that your question is specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
• Conduct a Thorough Literature Review : Before diving into your research, conduct a comprehensive literature review to familiarize yourself with existing knowledge on the topic. Identify key theories, concepts, methodologies, and gaps in the literature that your research aims to address.
• Create a Solid Research Design : Design a robust research plan that aligns with your research question. Define your study population, sampling strategy, data collection methods, and statistical analyses. A well-designed research plan enhances the validity and reliability of your findings.
• Collect and Analyze Data : Implement your data collection methods, ensuring ethical considerations and adherence to research protocols. Once collected, analyze the data using appropriate statistical techniques and tools. Provide a clear description of your analytical methods.
• Structure your Paper Effectively : Organize your research paper into logical sections, including an introduction, literature review, methodology, results, discussion, and conclusion. Use headings and subheadings to enhance readability and guide the reader through your paper.
• Write a Compelling Introduction : Start your paper with a strong introduction that captures the reader’s attention and provides a concise overview of the research topic, objectives, and significance. Clearly state your research question and the rationale for your study.
• Present Clear and Concise Results : Present your research findings in a clear and concise manner. Use tables, graphs, and figures where appropriate to enhance the readability of your results. Provide a comprehensive interpretation of the results, highlighting key findings and their implications.
• Engage in Critical Analysis and Discussion : Analyze and interpret your findings in the context of existing literature. Discuss the strengths and limitations of your study, addressing potential biases or confounders. Consider alternative explanations and provide a thoughtful discussion of the implications of your findings.
• Follow Proper Citation and Referencing Guidelines : Adhere to the appropriate citation style (such as APA, MLA, or Chicago) consistently throughout your paper. Cite all sources accurately and include a comprehensive list of references at the end of your paper.
• Revise and Edit : Before finalizing your research paper, revise and edit it thoroughly. Pay attention to clarity, coherence, grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Ensure that your arguments flow logically and that your paper is well-structured and cohesive.

By following these tips, you will be well-equipped to write a high-quality healthcare research paper that effectively communicates your findings, contributes to the existing knowledge in the field, and engages readers with your insights and conclusions. Remember to seek feedback from your peers, professors, or research advisors to further refine your paper and ensure its overall excellence.

iResearchNet’s Custom Writing Services

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• In-Depth Research : Our writers are skilled in conducting extensive research using reputable sources. They delve deep into the literature to gather the most relevant and up-to-date information, providing a solid foundation for your research paper.
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At iResearchNet, we are dedicated to your success. We strive to exceed your expectations and provide you with a seamless and exceptional experience. Trust us with your healthcare research paper and let our expert writers bring your ideas to life with professionalism, accuracy, and academic excellence.

Customized Solutions for Your Research Needs

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At iResearchNet, we understand the unique challenges that come with writing healthcare research papers. Our team of expert degree-holding writers specializes in the health sciences field, allowing us to deliver customized solutions tailored to your specific research needs. Whether you need assistance in selecting a research topic, conducting in-depth literature reviews, analyzing data, or crafting a well-structured paper, we have the expertise to guide you every step of the way.

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Best Nursing Research Topics for Students

What is a nursing research paper.

• What They Include
• Choosing a Topic
• Best Nursing Research Topics
• Research Paper Writing Tips

Writing a research paper is a massive task that involves careful organization, critical analysis, and a lot of time. Some nursing students are natural writers, while others struggle to select a nursing research topic, let alone write about it.

If you're a nursing student who dreads writing research papers, this article may help ease your anxiety. We'll cover everything you need to know about writing nursing school research papers and the top topics for nursing research.  

Continue reading to make your paper-writing jitters a thing of the past.

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A nursing research paper is a work of academic writing composed by a nurse or nursing student. The paper may present information on a specific topic or answer a question.

During LPN/LVN and RN programs, most papers you write focus on learning to use research databases, evaluate appropriate resources, and format your writing with APA style. You'll then synthesize your research information to answer a question or analyze a topic.

BSN , MSN , Ph.D., and DNP programs also write nursing research papers. Students in these programs may also participate in conducting original research studies.

Writing papers during your academic program improves and develops many skills, including the ability to:

• Select nursing topics for research
• Conduct effective research
• Analyze published academic literature
• Format and cite sources
• Synthesize data
• Organize and articulate findings

About Nursing Research Papers

When do nursing students write research papers.

You may need to write a research paper for any of the nursing courses you take. Research papers help develop critical thinking and communication skills. They allow you to learn how to conduct research and critically review publications.

That said, not every class will require in-depth, 10-20-page papers. The more advanced your degree path, the more you can expect to write and conduct research. If you're in an associate or bachelor's program, you'll probably write a few papers each semester or term.

Do Nursing Students Conduct Original Research?

Most of the time, you won't be designing, conducting, and evaluating new research. Instead, your projects will focus on learning the research process and the scientific method. You'll achieve these objectives by evaluating existing nursing literature and sources and defending a thesis.

However, many nursing faculty members do conduct original research. So, you may get opportunities to participate in, and publish, research articles.

Example Research Project Scenario:

In your maternal child nursing class, the professor assigns the class a research paper regarding developmentally appropriate nursing interventions for the pediatric population. While that may sound specific, you have almost endless opportunities to narrow down the focus of your writing. 

You could choose pain intervention measures in toddlers. Conversely, you can research the effects of prolonged hospitalization on adolescents' social-emotional development.

What Does a Nursing Research Paper Include?

Your professor should provide a thorough guideline of the scope of the paper. In general, an undergraduate nursing research paper will consist of:

Introduction : A brief overview of the research question/thesis statement your paper will discuss. You can include why the topic is relevant.

Body : This section presents your research findings and allows you to synthesize the information and data you collected. You'll have a chance to articulate your evaluation and answer your research question. The length of this section depends on your assignment.

Conclusion : A brief review of the information and analysis you presented throughout the body of the paper. This section is a recap of your paper and another chance to reassert your thesis.

The best advice is to follow your instructor's rubric and guidelines. Remember to ask for help whenever needed, and avoid overcomplicating the assignment!

How to Choose a Nursing Research Topic

The sheer volume of prospective nursing research topics can become overwhelming for students. Additionally, you may get the misconception that all the 'good' research ideas are exhausted. However, a personal approach may help you narrow down a research topic and find a unique angle.

Writing your research paper about a topic you value or connect with makes the task easier. Additionally, you should consider the material's breadth. Topics with plenty of existing literature will make developing a research question and thesis smoother.

Finally, feel free to shift gears if necessary, especially if you're still early in the research process. If you start down one path and have trouble finding published information, ask your professor if you can choose another topic.

The Best Research Topics for Nursing Students

You have endless subject choices for nursing research papers. This non-exhaustive list just scratches the surface of some of the best nursing research topics.

1. Clinical Nursing Research Topics

• Analyze the use of telehealth/virtual nursing to reduce inpatient nurse duties.
• Discuss the impact of evidence-based respiratory interventions on patient outcomes in critical care settings.
• Explore the effectiveness of pain management protocols in pediatric patients.

2. Community Health Nursing Research Topics

• Assess the impact of nurse-led diabetes education in Type II Diabetics.
• Analyze the relationship between socioeconomic status and access to healthcare services.

3. Nurse Education Research Topics

• Review the effectiveness of simulation-based learning to improve nursing students' clinical skills.
• Identify methods that best prepare pre-licensure students for clinical practice.
• Investigate factors that influence nurses to pursue advanced degrees.
• Evaluate education methods that enhance cultural competence among nurses.
• Describe the role of mindfulness interventions in reducing stress and burnout among nurses.

4. Mental Health Nursing Research Topics

• Explore patient outcomes related to nurse staffing levels in acute behavioral health settings.
• Assess the effectiveness of mental health education among emergency room nurses .
• Explore de-escalation techniques that result in improved patient outcomes.
• Review the effectiveness of therapeutic communication in improving patient outcomes.

5. Pediatric Nursing Research Topics

• Assess the impact of parental involvement in pediatric asthma treatment adherence.
• Explore challenges related to chronic illness management in pediatric patients.
• Review the role of play therapy and other therapeutic interventions that alleviate anxiety among hospitalized children.

6. The Nursing Profession Research Topics

• Analyze the effects of short staffing on nurse burnout .
• Evaluate factors that facilitate resiliency among nursing professionals.
• Examine predictors of nurse dissatisfaction and burnout.
• Posit how nursing theories influence modern nursing practice.

Tips for Writing a Nursing Research Paper

The best nursing research advice we can provide is to follow your professor's rubric and instructions. However, here are a few study tips for nursing students to make paper writing less painful:

Avoid procrastination: Everyone says it, but few follow this advice. You can significantly lower your stress levels if you avoid procrastinating and start working on your project immediately.

Plan Ahead: Break down the writing process into smaller sections, especially if it seems overwhelming. Give yourself time for each step in the process.

Research: Use your resources and ask for help from the librarian or instructor. The rest should come together quickly once you find high-quality studies to analyze.

Outline: Create an outline to help you organize your thoughts. Then, you can plug in information throughout the research process. 

Clear Language: Use plain language as much as possible to get your point across. Jargon is inevitable when writing academic nursing papers, but keep it to a minimum.

Cite Properly: Accurately cite all sources using the appropriate citation style. Nursing research papers will almost always implement APA style. Check out the resources below for some excellent reference management options.

Revise and Edit: Once you finish your first draft, put it away for one to two hours or, preferably, a whole day. Once you've placed some space between you and your paper, read through and edit for clarity, coherence, and grammatical errors. Reading your essay out loud is an excellent way to check for the 'flow' of the paper.

Helpful Nursing Research Writing Resources:

Purdue OWL (Online writing lab) has a robust APA guide covering everything you need about APA style and rules.

Grammarly helps you edit grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Upgrading to a paid plan will get you plagiarism detection, formatting, and engagement suggestions. This tool is excellent to help you simplify complicated sentences.

Mendeley is a free reference management software. It stores, organizes, and cites references. It has a Microsoft plug-in that inserts and correctly formats APA citations.

Don't let nursing research papers scare you away from starting nursing school or furthering your education. Their purpose is to develop skills you'll need to be an effective nurse: critical thinking, communication, and the ability to review published information critically.

Choose a great topic and follow your teacher's instructions; you'll finish that paper in no time.

Joleen Sams is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner based in the Kansas City metro area. During her 10-year RN career, Joleen worked in NICU, inpatient pediatrics, and regulatory compliance. Since graduating with her MSN-FNP in 2019, she has worked in urgent care and nursing administration. Connect with Joleen on LinkedIn or see more of her writing on her website.

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300+ Health Related Research Topics For Medical Students(2023)

In the world of academia and healthcare, finding the right health-related research topics is essential. Whether you are a medical student, a college student, or a seasoned researcher, the choice of your research topic greatly impacts the quality and relevance of your work. This blog, health related research topics, is your guide to selecting the perfect subject for your research.

In this post, we will share 5 invaluable tips to help you pick suitable health-related research topics. Additionally, we will outline the crucial elements that every health-related research paper should incorporate.

Furthermore, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of 300+ health-related research topics for medical students in 2023. These include categories like mental health, public health, nutrition, chronic diseases, healthcare policy, and more. We also offer guidance on selecting the right topic to ensure your research is engaging and meaningful.

So, whether you are delving into mental health, investigating environmental factors, or exploring global health concerns, health-related research topics will assist you in making informed and impactful choices for your research journey, even within the hardest medical specialties .

What Is Health Research?

Table of Contents

Health research is like detective work to understand how our bodies work and how to keep them healthy. It’s like asking questions and finding answers about things like sickness, medicine, and how to live better. Scientists and doctors do health research to learn new ways to treat illnesses, like finding better medicines or discovering new ways to prevent diseases.

Health research is a puzzle, where scientists collect information, do experiments, and study many people to find out what makes us healthy or sick. They want to find clues and put them together to help us stay well and live longer. So, health research is like a quest to learn more about our bodies and find ways to make them work their best, keeping us happy and strong.

5 Useful Tips For Choosing Health Related Research Topics

Here are some useful tips for choosing health related research topics: 

Tip 1: Follow Your Interests

When picking a health research topic, it’s a good idea to choose something you’re curious and excited about. If you’re interested in a subject, you’ll enjoy learning more about it, and you’ll be motivated to do your best. So, think about what aspects of health catch your attention and explore those areas for your research.

Tip 2: Consider Relevance

Your research topic should be meaningful and have real-world importance. Think about how your research can contribute to solving health problems or improving people’s well-being. Topics that are relevant and can make a positive impact on health and healthcare are usually more valuable.

Tip 3: Check Available Resources

Before deciding on a research topic, make sure you have access to the necessary resources, like books, articles, or equipment. It’s important that you can find the information and tools you need to conduct your research effectively.

Tip 4: Keep It Manageable

Select a research topic that you can handle within the available time and resources. It’s better to choose a more focused and manageable topic rather than something too broad or complex. This way, you can delve deep into the subject and produce meaningful results.

Tip 5: Seek Guidance

Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance from teachers, professors, or experts in the field. They can help you refine your research topic, provide valuable insights, and suggest improvements. Seeking advice can make your research journey smoother and more successful.

Important Elements That Must Be Present In A Health Related Research Paper

Here are some important elements that must be present in a health related research paper: 

1. Clear Title and Introduction

A good health research paper needs a clear title that tells people what it’s about. The introduction should explain why the research is important and what the paper will discuss. It’s like the map that shows the way.

2. Methods and Data

You should describe how you did your research and the data you collected. This helps others understand how you found your information. It’s like showing your work in math so that others can check it.

3. Results and Conclusions

After doing your research, you need to show what you discovered. Share the results and what they mean. Conclusions tell people what you found out and why it’s important. It’s like the “So what?” part of your paper.

4. Citations and References

When you use other people’s ideas or words, you need to give them credit. Citations and references show where you got your information. It’s like saying, “I learned this from here.”

5. Clear Language and Organization

Make sure your paper is easy to read and well-organized. Use clear and simple language so that everyone can understand. Organize your paper logically, with a beginning, middle, and end, like a good story. This makes your research paper more effective and useful.

In this section, we will discuss 300+ health related research topics for medical students(2023): 

Health Related Research Topics

• How living choices affect health and how long people live.
• Ways to make it easier for people in underserved areas to get medical care.
• The role of DNA in determining susceptibility to different diseases.
• There are differences in health between race and ethnic groups and between socioeconomic groups.
• Checking how well health education programs encourage people to behave in a healthy way.
• The effects that stress has on the body and mind.
• Looking at the pros and cons of different vaccine plans.
• The link between how well you sleep and your general health.
• The use of technology to make health care better.
• How cultural beliefs and habits affect how people seek health care.

Mental Health Related Research Topics

• Identifying the factors contributing to the rise in mental health disorders among adolescents.
• Examining the effectiveness of different therapeutic approaches for treating depression and anxiety.
• How social media can hurt your mental health and self-esteem.
• We are looking into the link between traumatic events in youth and mental health problems later in life.
•  Stigma and racism in mental health care, and how they make people less healthy.
•  Ways to lower the suicide rate among people who are at high risk.
•  Exercise and other forms of physical action can help your mental health.
•  The link between using drugs and having mental health problems.
•  Mental health support for frontline healthcare workers during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
•  Exploring the potential of digital mental health interventions and apps.

Health Related Research Topics For College Students

• The impact of college stress on physical and mental health.
•  Assessing the effectiveness of college mental health services.
•  The role of peer influence on college students’ health behaviors.
•  Nutrition and dietary habits among college students.
•  Substance use and abuse on college campuses.
•  Investigating the prevalence of sleep disorders among college students.
•  Exploring sexual health awareness and behaviors among college students.
•  Evaluating the relationship between academic performance and overall health.
•  The influence of social media on college students’ health perceptions and behaviors.
•  Ideas for getting people on college grounds to be more active and eat better.

Public Health Related Research Topics

• Evaluating the impact of public health campaigns on smoking cessation .
•  The effectiveness of vaccination mandates in preventing disease outbreaks.
•  Looking into the link between the health of the people in cities and the quality of the air.
•  Strategies for addressing the opioid epidemic through public health initiatives.
•  The role of public health surveillance in early disease detection and response.
•  Assessing the impact of food labeling on consumer choices and nutrition.
•  Looking at how well public health measures work to lower the number of overweight and obese kids.
•  The importance of water quality in maintaining public health.
•  This paper examines various strategies aimed at enhancing mother and child health outcomes in emerging nations.
•  Addressing the mental health crisis through public health interventions.

Mental Disorder Research Topics

• The mental health effects of social isolation, with a particular focus on the COVID-19 pandemic.
•  Exploring the relationship between mental health and creative expression.
•  Cultural differences influence the way in which mental health disorders are perceived and treated.
•  The use of mindfulness and meditation techniques in managing mental health.
•  Investigating the mental health challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals.
•  Examining the role of nutrition and dietary habits in mood disorders.
•  The influence of childhood experiences on adult mental health.
•  Innovative approaches to reducing the stigma surrounding mental health.
•  Mental health support for veterans and active-duty military personnel.
•  The relation between sleep disorders and mental health.

Nutrition and Diet-Related Research Topics

• The impact of dietary patterns (e.g., Mediterranean, ketogenic) on health outcomes.
•  Investigating the role of gut microbiota in digestion and overall health.
•  The effects of food labeling and nutritional education on dietary choices.
•  The correlation between chronic disease prevention and nutrition.
•  Assessing the nutritional needs of different age groups (children, adults, elderly).
•  Exploring the benefits and drawbacks of various diet fads (e.g., intermittent fasting, veganism).
•  The role of nutrition in managing obesity and weight-related health issues.
•  Studying nutrition and mental wellness.
•   Impact of food insecure areas on population health and diet.
•  Strategies for promoting healthy eating in schools and workplaces.

Chronic Disease Research Topics

• The contribution of inflammation to the progression and development of chronic diseases.
•  Evaluating the effectiveness of lifestyle modifications in managing chronic conditions.
•  The impact of chronic stress on various health conditions.
•  Investigating disparities in the management and treatment of chronic diseases among different populations.
•  Exploring the genetics of chronic diseases and potential gene therapies.
•  The impact that environmental factors, including pollution, have on the prevalence of chronic diseases.
•  Assessing the long-term health consequences of childhood obesity.
•  Strategies for improving the quality of life for individuals living with chronic diseases.
•  The importance of maintaining a healthy level of physical activity and exercise for both the prevention and treatment of chronic illnesses.
•  Investigating innovative treatments and therapies for chronic diseases, such as gene editing and personalized medicine.

Healthcare Policy and Access Research Topics

• Assessing how the Affordable Care Act affects healthcare access and outcomes.
•  Telehealth’s impact on rural healthcare access.
•  Investigating the cost-effectiveness of various healthcare payment models (e.g., single-payer, private insurance).
•  Assessing healthcare disparities among different racial and socioeconomic groups.
•  The influence of political ideologies on healthcare policy and access.
•  Healthcare professional shortage solutions, including nurses and doctors.
•  The impact of malpractice reform on healthcare quality and access.
•  Examining the role of pharmaceutical pricing and regulation in healthcare access.
•  The use of technology in streamlining healthcare administration and improving access.
•  Exploring the intersection of healthcare policy, ethics, and patient rights.

Environmental Health Research Topics

• The impact of climate change on public health, including increased heat-related illnesses and vector-borne diseases.
•  Studying air pollution’s effects on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems.
•  Assessing the health consequences of exposure to environmental toxins and pollutants.
•  Exploring the role of green spaces and urban planning in promoting public health.
•  The impact of water quality and sanitation on community health.
•  Strategies for minimizing the health risks linked with natural catastrophes and extreme weather events.
•  Investigating the health implications of food and water security in vulnerable populations.
•  The influence of environmental justice on health disparities.
•  Evaluating the benefits of renewable energy sources in reducing air pollution and promoting health.
•  The role of public policy in addressing environmental health concerns.

Infectious Disease Research Topics

• Tracking the evolution and spread of infectious diseases, including COVID-19.
•  Investigating the effectiveness of vaccination campaigns in preventing outbreaks.
•  Antimicrobial resistance and strategies to combat it.
•  Assessing the role of vector-borne diseases in global health, such as malaria and Zika virus.
•  The impact of travel and globalization on the spread of infectious diseases.
•  Strategies for early detection and containment of emerging infectious diseases.
•  The role of hygiene and sanitation in reducing infectious disease transmission.
•  Investigating the cultural factors that influence infectious disease prevention and treatment.
•  The use of technology in disease surveillance and response.
• Examining the ethical and legal considerations in managing infectious disease outbreaks.

Women’s Health Research Topics

• Exploring the gender-specific health issues faced by women, such as reproductive health and menopause.
• Investigating the impact of hormonal contraception on women’s health.
• Assessing the barriers to accessing quality maternal healthcare in low-income countries.
• The role of gender-based violence in women’s mental and physical health.
• Strategies for promoting women’s sexual health and reproductive rights.
• Exploring the relationship between breast cancer and genetics.
• The influence of body image and societal pressures on women’s mental health.
• Investigating healthcare disparities among different groups of women, including racial and ethnic disparities.
• Strategies for improving access to women’s healthcare services, including family planning and prenatal care.
• The use of telemedicine and technology to address women’s health needs, especially in remote areas.

Children’s Health Research Topics

• The impact of early childhood nutrition on long-term health and development.
• Environmental toxin exposure and child health.
• Assessing the role of parenting styles in children’s mental and emotional well-being.
• Strategies for preventing and managing childhood obesity.
• The influence of media and technology on children’s physical and mental health.
• Exploring the challenges faced by children with chronic illnesses and disabilities.
• The relevance of early child mental wellness and developmental condition intervention.
• Investigating the role of schools in promoting children’s health and well-being.
• Strategies for addressing child healthcare disparities, including access to vaccines and preventive care.
• Adverse childhood experiences and adult health.

Aging and Gerontology Research Topics

• Investigating the factors contributing to healthy aging and longevity.
• Assessing the impact of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease on elderly individuals and their families.
• Strategies for improving elder care services and addressing the aging population’s healthcare needs.
• Exploring the social isolation and mental health challenges faced by the elderly.
• The importance of nutrition and exercise in old age.
• Investigating the impact of age-related chronic diseases, such as arthritis and osteoporosis.
• Assessing the financial and ethical aspects of end-of-life care for the elderly.
• Strategies for promoting intergenerational relationships and support networks.
• The influence of cultural differences on aging and health outcomes.
• Exploring technology and innovation in elder care, including assistive devices and telemedicine.

Health Technology and Innovation Research Topics

• The impact of telemedicine and virtual health platforms on patient care and outcomes.
• Investigating the use of wearable health technology in monitoring and managing chronic conditions.
• Assessing the ethical and privacy considerations of health data collection through technology.
• Investigating medical diagnoses and treatment with AI and ML.
• The role of robotics in healthcare, including surgical procedures and elder care.
• Investigating the use of 3D printing in healthcare, such as prosthetics and medical devices.
• The influence of mobile health apps on patient engagement and self-care.
• Strategies for implementing electronic health records (EHRs) and interoperability.
• The impact of precision medicine and genomics on personalized healthcare.
• Exploring the future of healthcare delivery through telehealth, remote monitoring, and AI-driven diagnostics.

Global Health Research Topics

• Investigating the challenges of global health equity and healthcare access in low- and middle-income countries.
• Assessing the effectiveness of international health organizations in addressing global health crises.
• Resource-limited mother and child health strategies.
• Exploring the impact of infectious diseases in global health, including tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS.
• The role of clean water and sanitation in improving global health outcomes.
• Investigating the social determinants of health in different global regions.
• Assessing the impact of humanitarian aid and disaster relief efforts on public health.
• Strategies for combating malnutrition and food insecurity in developing countries.
• The influence of climate change on global health, including the spread of vector-borne diseases.
• Exploring innovative approaches to global health, such as community health workers and telemedicine initiatives.
• Exploring the artificial intelligence and machine learning in medical treatment.

Health Disparities and Equity Research Topics

• The impact of socioeconomic status on healthcare access and health outcomes.
• Strategies to decrease racial and ethnic disparities in maternal and child health.
• LGBTQ+ healthcare disparities and interventions for equitable care.
• Health disparities among rural and urban populations in developed and developing countries.
• Cultural competence in healthcare and its role in reducing disparities.
• The intersection of gender, race, and socioeconomic status in health disparities.
• Addressing health disparities in the elderly population.
• The role of discrimination in perpetuating health inequities.
• Strategies to improve healthcare access for individuals with disabilities.
• The impact of COVID-19 on health disparities and lessons learned for future pandemics.

Cancer Research Topics

• Advancements in precision medicine for personalized cancer treatment.
• Immunotherapy breakthroughs in cancer treatment.
• Environmental factors and cancer risk: A comprehensive review.
• The role of genomics in understanding cancer susceptibility.
• Cancer treatment and survivorship, as well as quality of life following cancer therapy.
• The economics of cancer treatment and its impact on patients.
• Cancer prevention and early detection strategies in underserved communities.
• Palliative care and end-of-life decisions in cancer patients.
• Emerging trends in cancer epidemiology and global burden.
• Ethical considerations in cancer clinical trials and research.

Pharmaceutical Research Topics

• Repurposing existing medications in order to address uncommon illnesses.
• The impact of nanotechnology in drug delivery and targeting.
• Pharmacogenomics and personalized medicine: Current status and future prospects.
• Challenges and opportunities in developing vaccines for emerging infectious diseases.
• Quality control and safety in the pharmaceutical manufacturing process.
• Drug pricing and access: A global perspective.
• Green chemistry approaches in sustainable pharmaceutical development.
• The part that artificial intelligence plays in the search for new drugs and their development.
• Biopharmaceuticals and the future of protein-based therapies.
• Regulatory challenges in ensuring drug safety and efficacy.

Epidemiology Research Topics

• Emerging infectious diseases and global preparedness.
• The COVID-19 pandemic will have long-term effect on the health of the general population.
• Social determinants of health and their impact on disease prevalence.
• Environmental epidemiology and the study of health effects of pollution.
• Big data and its role in modern epidemiological research.
• Spatial epidemiology and the study of disease clusters.
• Epidemiological aspects of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like diabetes and obesity.
• Genetic epidemiology and the study of hereditary diseases.
• Epidemiological methods for studying mental health disorders.
• Epidemiology of zoonotic diseases and their prevention.

Alternative and Complementary Medicine Research Topics

• Efficacy and safety of herbal remedies in complementary medicine.
• Mind-body interventions and their role in managing chronic pain.
• Acupuncture and its potential in the treatment of various conditions.
• Integrating traditional and complementary medicine into mainstream healthcare.
• Yoga and meditation for stress reduction and mental health.
• Biofield therapies and their impact on well-being.
• Ayurvedic medicine and its modern applications in health and wellness.
• Chiropractic care and its use in musculoskeletal health.
• Ethical considerations in the practice and regulation of alternative medicine.
• Integrating traditional Chinese medicine into Western healthcare systems.

Occupational Health and Safety Research Topics

• Occupational hazards in healthcare settings and strategies for prevention.
• The impact of remote work on occupational health and well-being.
• Ergonomics and its role in preventing workplace injuries.
• Occupational exposure to hazardous chemicals and long-term health effects.
• Mental health in the office: Stress, burnout, and interventions.
• Occupational safety in the construction industry: Recent developments.
• Role of technology in enhancing workplace safety.
• Occupational health disparities among different industries and occupations.
• The economics of workplace safety and the cost-benefit analysis.
• Business impacts of OSHA regulations.

Addiction and Substance Abuse Research Topics

• The opioid epidemic: Current status and future strategies.
• Dual diagnosis: Co-occurring mental health disorders and substance abuse.
• Harm reduction approaches in addiction treatment.
• The role of family and social support in addiction recovery.
• Behavioral addictions: Understanding and treating non-substance-related addictions.
• Novel pharmacotherapies for addiction treatment.
• The impact of COVID-19 on substance abuse and addiction.
• Substance abuse prevention programs in schools and communities.
• Stigmatization of addiction and its impact on treatment-seeking behavior.
• Substance abuse in the elderly population: Unique challenges and solutions.

Biomedical Research Topics

• Recent advancements in gene editing technologies (e.g., CRISPR-Cas9).
• Regenerative medicine and tissue engineering for organ replacement.
• Bioinformatics and its role in analyzing large-scale biological data.
• Stem cell research and its important applications in regenerative medicine.
• Biomarker discovery for early disease detection and monitoring.
• Precision medicine and its potential to transform healthcare.
• The microbiome and its impacts on human health and disease.
• Aging-related research and interventions for healthy aging.
• Neurodegenerative diseases and potential therapeutic approaches.
• Biomedical ethics in the age of cutting-edge research.

Maternal and Child Health Research Topics

• The influence of the mother’s nutrition on the development and health of the fetus.
• Maternal mental health and its positive effects on child development.
• Preterm birth prevention and interventions for at-risk pregnancies.
• Neonatal screening and early diagnosis of congenital diseases.
• Breastfeeding promotion and support for new mothers.
• Pediatric immunization programs and vaccine hesitancy.
• Child obesity prevention and intervention strategies.
• Maternal and child health in low-resource and conflict-affected areas.
• Maternal mortality reduction and improving access to obstetric care.
• Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and their long-term health consequences.

Mental Health Stigma Research Topics

• Understanding the origins and perpetuation of mental health stigma.
• Media and pop culture’s impact on mental disease views.
• Reducing stigma in the workplace and promoting mental health support.
• Stigma associated with specific mental health conditions (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder).
• Intersectionality and how it influences mental health stigma.
• Anti-stigma campaigns and their effectiveness in changing public attitudes.
• Stigma in online communities and the role of social media in shaping opinions.
• Cultural and cross-cultural perspectives on mental health stigma.
• The impact of self-stigma on individuals seeking mental health treatment.
• Legislative and policy efforts to combat mental health stigma.

Health Education and Promotion Research Topics

• Health literacy and its impact on informed decision-making.
• Promoting healthy behaviors in schools and educational settings.
• Social marketing campaigns for health behavior change.
• Community-based health promotion programs in underserved areas.
• The role of technology and social media in health education.
• Tailoring health messages to diverse populations and cultural sensitivity.
• The use of behavioral economics in health promotion strategies.
• Investigating the effectiveness of school-based sex education programs.
• Health education for the elderly population: Challenges and solutions.
• Promoting mental health awareness and resilience through education.

Healthcare Quality and Patient Safety Research Topics

• Patient-centered care and its impact on healthcare quality.
• Reducing medical errors and negative events in healthcare settings.
• Continuous quality improvement in healthcare organizations.
• The role of healthcare accreditation in ensuring quality and safety.
• Patient engagement and shared decision-making in healthcare.
• Electronic health records and patient safety.
• The ethics of telling patients and families about medical blunders.
• Medication safety and preventing adverse drug events.
• Cultural competence in healthcare and its effect on patient safety.
• Disaster preparedness and response in healthcare settings.

Health Informatics and Data Analytics Research Topics

• Big data analytics in healthcare for predictive modeling.
• Artificial intelligence in medical image analysis and diagnostics.
• Health information exchange and interoperability challenges.
• Electronic health record (EHR) usability and user satisfaction.
• Patient data privacy and security in health informatics.
• Telemedicine and its impact on healthcare delivery and data management.
• Real-time monitoring and data analytics for disease outbreaks.
• Health informatics applications in personalized medicine.
• Natural language processing for clinical notes and text analysis.
• The role of data analyticsin enhancing healthcare quality and outcomes.

Neurological Disorders Research Topics

• Neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s).
• Stroke prevention and rehabilitation strategies.
• Advances in brain imaging techniques for diagnosing neurological disorders.
• Pediatric neurological disorders: Diagnosis and intervention.
• Neurogenetics and the role of genetics in neurological conditions.
• Traumatic brain injury: Long-term effects and rehabilitation.
• Neurorehabilitation and quality of life improvement in patients with neurological disorders.
• Neurological consequences of long COVID and post-viral syndromes.
• The gut-brain connection and its implications for neurological health.
• Ethical considerations in neurological research and treatment.

Bioethics in Health Research Topics

• Informed consent and its challenges in clinical trials and research.
• Ethical considerations in human genome editing and gene therapy.
• Allocation of healthcare resources and the principles of distributive justice.
• The ethics of organ transplantation and organ trafficking.
• End-of-life decision-making, including physician-assisted suicide.
• Ethical issues in the use of Artficial intelligence in healthcare decision-making.
• Research involving vulnerable populations: Balancing benefits and risks.
• Ethical considerations in global health research and disparities.
• Ethical implications of emerging biotechnologies, such as CRISPR-Cas9.
• Autonomy and decision-making capacity in healthcare ethics.

Read More 

• Biology Research Topics
• Neuroscience Research Topics

Points To Be Remembered While Selecting Health Related Research Topics

When selecting a health-related research topic, there are several important considerations to keep in mind to ensure your research is meaningful and effective. Here are 7 key points to remember:

• Interest and Passion: Choose a topic that is according to your interests you, as your enthusiasm will fuel your research.
• Relevance: Ensure your topic addresses a real health issue or concern that can make a positive impact.
• Resources Availability: Confirm that you have access to the necessary materials and information for your research.
• Manageability: Pick a topic that is not too broad, ensuring it’s something you can investigate thoroughly.
• Guidance: Seek advice from experts or mentors to refine your topic and receive valuable insights.
• Ethical Considerations : Always consider the ethical implications of your research and ensure it complies with ethical guidelines.
• Feasibility: Ensure that the research can be completed within the available time and resources.

In the ever-evolving landscape of health research, selecting the right topic is the foundation for meaningful contributions. This blog has provided a roadmap for choosing health-related research topics, emphasizing the importance of personal interest, relevance, available resources, manageability, and expert guidance. Additionally, it has offered 300+ research topics across various domains, including mental health, public health, nutrition, chronic diseases, healthcare policy, and more. 

In addition, with these insights, researchers, students, and healthcare professionals can embark on journeys that not only align with their passions but also address critical healthcare challenges. By making informed choices, we can collectively advance the frontiers of health and well-being.

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55 research questions about mental health

Last updated

11 March 2024

Reviewed by

Brittany Ferri, PhD, OTR/L

Short on time? Get an AI generated summary of this article instead

Research in the mental health space helps fill knowledge gaps and create a fuller picture for patients, healthcare professionals, and policymakers. Over time, these efforts result in better quality care and more accessible treatment options for those who need them.

Use this list of mental health research questions to kickstart your next project or assignment and give yourself the best chance of producing successful and fulfilling research.

• Why does mental health research matter?

Mental health research is an essential area of study. It includes any research that focuses on topics related to people’s mental and emotional well-being.

As a complex health topic that, despite the prevalence of mental health conditions, still has an unending number of unanswered questions, the need for thorough research into causes, triggers, and treatment options is clear.

Research into this heavily stigmatized and often misunderstood topic is needed to find better ways to support people struggling with mental health conditions. Understanding what causes them is another crucial area of study, as it enables individuals, companies, and policymakers to make well-informed choices that can help prevent illnesses like anxiety and depression.

• How to choose a strong mental health research topic

As one of the most important parts of beginning a new research project, picking a topic that is intriguing, unique, and in demand is a great way to get the best results from your efforts.

Mental health is a blanket term with many niches and specific areas to explore. But, no matter which direction you choose, follow the tips below to ensure you pick the right topic.

Prioritize your interests and skills

While a big part of research is exploring a new and exciting topic, this exploration is best done within a topic or niche in which you are interested and experienced.

Research is tough, even at the best of times. To combat fatigue and increase your chances of pushing through to the finish line, we recommend choosing a topic that aligns with your personal interests, training, or skill set.

Consider emerging trends

Topical and current research questions are hot commodities because they offer solutions and insights into culturally and socially relevant problems.

Depending on the scope and level of freedom you have with your upcoming research project, choosing a topic that’s trending in your area of study is one way to get support and funding (if you need it).

Not every study can be based on a cutting-edge topic, but this can be a great way to explore a new space and create baseline research data for future studies.

Assess your resources and timeline

Before choosing a super ambitious and exciting research topic, consider your project restrictions.

You’ll need to think about things like your research timeline, access to resources and funding, and expected project scope when deciding how broad your research topic will be. In most cases, it’s better to start small and focus on a specific area of study.

Broad research projects are expensive and labor and resource-intensive. They can take years or even decades to complete. Before biting off more than you can chew, consider your scope and find a research question that fits within it.

Read up on the latest research

Finally, once you have narrowed in on a specific topic, you need to read up on the latest studies and published research. A thorough research assessment is a great way to gain some background context on your chosen topic and stops you from repeating a study design. Using the existing work as your guide, you can explore more specific and niche questions to provide highly beneficial answers and insights.

• Trending research questions for post-secondary students

As a post-secondary student, finding interesting research questions that fit within the scope of your classes or resources can be challenging. But, with a little bit of effort and pre-planning, you can find unique mental health research topics that will meet your class or project requirements.

Examples of research topics for post-secondary students include the following:

How does school-related stress impact a person’s mental health?

To what extent does burnout impact mental health in medical students?

How does chronic school stress impact a student’s physical health?

How does exam season affect the severity of mental health symptoms?

Is mental health counseling effective for students in an acute mental crisis?

• Research questions about anxiety and depression

Anxiety and depression are two of the most commonly spoken about mental health conditions. You might assume that research about these conditions has already been exhausted or that it’s no longer in demand. That’s not the case at all.

According to a 2022 survey by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 12.5% of American adults struggle with regular feelings of worry, nervousness, and anxiety, and 5% struggle with regular feelings of depression. These percentages amount to millions of lives affected, meaning new research into these conditions is essential.

If either of these topics interests you, here are a few trending research questions you could consider:

Does gender play a role in the early diagnosis of anxiety?

How does untreated anxiety impact quality of life?

What are the most common symptoms of anxiety in working professionals aged 20–29?

To what extent do treatment delays impact quality of life in patients with undiagnosed anxiety?

To what extent does stigma affect the quality of care received by people with anxiety?

Here are some examples of research questions about depression:

Does diet play a role in the severity of depression symptoms?

Can people have a genetic predisposition to developing depression?

How common is depression in work-from-home employees?

Does mood journaling help manage depression symptoms?

What role does exercise play in the management of depression symptoms?

• Research questions about personality disorders

Personality disorders are complex mental health conditions tied to a person’s behaviors, sense of self, and how they interact with the world around them. Without a diagnosis and treatment, people with personality disorders are more likely to develop negative coping strategies during periods of stress and adversity, which can impact their quality of life and relationships.

There’s no shortage of specific research questions in this category. Here are some examples of research questions about personality disorders that you could explore:

What environments are more likely to trigger the development of a personality disorder?

What barriers impact access to care for people with personality disorders?

To what extent does undiagnosed borderline personality disorder impact a person’s ability to build relationships?

How does group therapy impact symptom severity in people with schizotypal personality disorder?

What is the treatment compliance rate of people with paranoid personality disorder?

• Research questions about substance use disorders

“Substance use disorders” is a blanket term for treatable behaviors and patterns within a person’s brain that lead them to become dependent on illicit drugs, alcohol, or prescription medications. It’s one of the most stigmatized mental health categories.

The severity of a person’s symptoms and how they impact their ability to participate in their regular daily life can vary significantly from person to person. But, even in less severe cases, people with a substance use disorder display some level of loss of control due to their need to use the substance they are dependent on.

This is an ever-evolving topic where research is in hot demand. Here are some example research questions:

To what extent do meditation practices help with craving management?

How effective are detox centers in treating acute substance use disorder?

Are there genetic factors that increase a person’s chances of developing a substance use disorder?

How prevalent are substance use disorders in immigrant populations?

To what extent do prescription medications play a role in developing substance use disorders?

• Research questions about mental health treatments

Treatments for mental health, pharmaceutical therapies in particular, are a common topic for research and exploration in this space.

Besides the clinical trials required for a drug to receive FDA approval, studies into the efficacy, risks, and patient experiences are essential to better understand mental health therapies.

These types of studies can easily become large in scope, but it’s possible to conduct small cohort research on mental health therapies that can provide helpful insights into the actual experiences of the people receiving these treatments.

Here are some questions you might consider:

What are the long-term effects of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for patients with severe depression?

How common is insomnia as a side effect of oral mental health medications?

What are the most common causes of non-compliance for mental health treatments?

How long does it take for patients to report noticeable changes in symptom severity after starting injectable mental health medications?

What issues are most common when weaning a patient off of an anxiety medication?

• Controversial mental health research questions

If you’re interested in exploring more cutting-edge research topics, you might consider one that’s “controversial.”

Depending on your own personal values, you might not think many of these topics are controversial. In the context of the research environment, this depends on the perspectives of your project lead and the desires of your sponsors. These topics may not align with the preferred subject matter.

That being said, that doesn’t make them any less worth exploring. In many cases, it makes them more worthwhile, as they encourage people to ask questions and think critically.

Here are just a few examples of “controversial” mental health research questions:

To what extent do financial crises impact mental health in young adults?

How have climate concerns impacted anxiety levels in young adults?

To what extent do psychotropic drugs help patients struggling with anxiety and depression?

To what extent does political reform impact the mental health of LGBTQ+ people?

What mental health supports should be available for the families of people who opt for medically assisted dying?

• Research questions about socioeconomic factors & mental health

Socioeconomic factors—like where a person grew up, their annual income, the communities they are exposed to, and the amount, type, and quality of mental health resources they have access to—significantly impact overall health.

This is a complex and multifaceted issue. Choosing a research question that addresses these topics can help researchers, experts, and policymakers provide more equitable and accessible care over time.

Examples of questions that tackle socioeconomic factors and mental health include the following:

How does sliding scale pricing for therapy increase retention rates?

What is the average cost to access acute mental health crisis care in [a specific region]?

To what extent does a person’s environment impact their risk of developing a mental health condition?

How does mental health stigma impact early detection of mental health conditions?

To what extent does discrimination affect the mental health of LGBTQ+ people?

• Research questions about the benefits of therapy

Therapy, whether that’s in groups or one-to-one sessions, is one of the most commonly utilized resources for managing mental health conditions. It can help support long-term healing and the development of coping mechanisms.

Yet, despite its popularity, more research is needed to properly understand its benefits and limitations.

Here are some therapy-based questions you could consider to inspire your own research:

In what instances does group therapy benefit people more than solo sessions?

How effective is cognitive behavioral therapy for patients with severe anxiety?

After how many therapy sessions do people report feeling a better sense of self?

Does including meditation reminders during therapy improve patient outcomes?

To what extent has virtual therapy improved access to mental health resources in rural areas?

• Research questions about mental health trends in teens

Adolescents are a particularly interesting group for mental health research due to the prevalence of early-onset mental health symptoms in this age group.

As a time of self-discovery and change, puberty brings plenty of stress, anxiety, and hardships, all of which can contribute to worsening mental health symptoms.

If you’re looking to learn more about how to support this age group with mental health, here are some examples of questions you could explore:

Does parenting style impact anxiety rates in teens?

How early should teenagers receive mental health treatment?

To what extent does cyberbullying impact adolescent mental health?

What are the most common harmful coping mechanisms explored by teens?

How have smartphones affected teenagers’ self-worth and sense of self?

• Research questions about social media and mental health

Social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) have significantly impacted day-to-day communication. However, despite their numerous benefits and uses, they have also become a significant source of stress, anxiety, and self-worth issues for those who use them.

These platforms have been around for a while now, but research on their impact is still in its infancy. Are you interested in building knowledge about this ever-changing topic? Here are some examples of social media research questions you could consider:

To what extent does TikTok’s mental health content impact people’s perception of their health?

How much non-professional mental health content is created on social media platforms?

How has social media content increased the likelihood of a teen self-identifying themselves with ADHD or autism?

To what extent do social media photoshopped images impact body image and self-worth?

Has social media access increased feelings of anxiety and dread in young adults?

• Mental health research is incredibly important

As you have seen, there are so many unique mental health research questions worth exploring. Which options are piquing your interest?

Whether you are a university student considering your next paper topic or a professional looking to explore a new area of study, mental health is an exciting and ever-changing area of research to get involved with.

Your research will be valuable, no matter how big or small. As a niche area of healthcare still shrouded in stigma, any insights you gain into new ways to support, treat, or identify mental health triggers and trends are a net positive for millions of people worldwide.

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150+ Public Health Research Topics & Ideas For Students

Public health research aims to understand and improve the health of communities and people. Some crucial areas of research in public health today include looking at social factors that affect health, developing helpful health programs, improving access to healthcare, and reducing health differences. 

In this blog, we will discuss public health research topics. Public health research uses scientific ways to identify things that influence health, disease, and injury in groups of people. Researchers collect and analyze information to find trends and patterns in health outcomes. 

This information is then used to develop programs, policies, and interventions to improve population health. With many continuing and new health challenges, public health research is essential for informing effective strategies to protect and promote the health of all people. Let’s dive in to explore public health research topics.

Why Public Health Research Matters?

Table of Contents

Public health research is important because:

• It finds health problems affecting groups of people. This helps public health workers know where help is most needed.
• It guides leaders on where to put resources. Findings show where funding should go to improve health the most.
• It checks if public health programs and policies work. Research helps improve these efforts over time.
• It leads to new health discoveries. Research teaches us more about keeping people healthy.
• It encourages healthy choices. When people know what affects their health, they can make better choices.
• Research improves quality of life and seeks to help people live longer, healthier lives.
• Research builds healthier communities and provides information to help make communities healthier for all.

In short, public health research gives important information to guide work that protects and improves everyone’s health. It’s a key tool for promoting community well-being.

Key Areas in Public Health Research

Here are some key areas in public health research:

Epidemiology 

Studies patterns of disease, health risks, and health behaviors in populations. Identifies risk factors that impact community health.

Health Disparities 

Health Disparities examine differences in health outcomes, access to care, and quality of life across populations. It seeks to understand and reduce inequities.

Social Determinants of Health 

It examines how social, economic, and environmental factors shape health and well-being. Focuses on improving conditions for healthy living.

Health Promotion 

Health Promotion develops and evaluates programs and policies to encourage healthy lifestyles, behaviors, and choices. It also promotes wellness and disease prevention.

Environmental Health

Explores links between environmental exposures and health. Identifies and mitigates ecological hazards and risks.

Health Systems and Policy 

Health Systems and Policy analyze health system structures, functions, and reforms to optimize quality, access, costs, and outcomes. It also evaluates health policies.

Community Health Assessments 

Collects and analyzes data on population health status, needs, resources, and priorities to guide public health planning.

Program Evaluation

Assesses effectiveness and impact of public health programs and interventions. It also helps refine approaches.

Public Health Preparedness

Examines capacities to prevent, respond to, and recover from health emergencies and disasters and strengthens public health systems.

Health Communication

Develop strategies to provide health information and influence health behaviors and social norms. Tailors are messaging for diverse audiences.

150+ Public Health Research Topics

Here is a list of 150+ public health research topics categorized into 15 groups.

Infectious Diseases: Public Health Research Topics

• Emerging infectious diseases: Challenges and responses
• Antimicrobial resistance: A global threat
• Vaccination strategies for preventing infectious diseases
• Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in different regions
• Impact of COVID-19 on mental health
• Vector-borne diseases: Surveillance and control
• Tuberculosis control and prevention
• Malaria elimination strategies
• Influenza outbreak preparedness
• Waterborne diseases: Prevention and control

Chronic Diseases: Public Health Research Topics

• Diabetes prevention and management
• Cardiovascular disease risk factors and interventions
• Cancer screening programs: Effectiveness and challenges
• Obesity prevention in children and adults
• Chronic respiratory diseases: Trends and interventions
• Mental health and chronic illness
• Substance abuse and its impact on chronic diseases
• Aging and the risk of chronic conditions
• Environmental factors in chronic disease development
• Genetic predisposition to chronic diseases

Environmental Health Research Topics

• Air pollution and respiratory health
• Water quality and its impact on public health
• Climate change and health disparities
• Occupational health and safety
• Urban planning for healthier cities
• Food safety and its implications for public health
• Environmental justice and health outcomes
• Pesticide exposure and health risks
• Noise pollution and its effects on well-being
• Built environment and public health
• Electronic waste and its health implications

Health Policy and Management: Public Health Research Topics

• Healthcare disparities in underserved populations
• Health insurance coverage and access to care
• Health system strengthening in developing countries
• Telemedicine: Opportunities and challenges
• Ethics in Health policy decision-making
• Healthcare workforce shortages: Causes and solutions
• Cost-effectiveness of public health interventions
• Public-private partnerships in healthcare
• Quality improvement in healthcare delivery
• Health information technology and patient outcomes
• Global health governance and policy

Maternal and Child Health: Public Health Research Topics

• Maternal mortality reduction strategies
• Early childhood development and its long-term impact
• Breastfeeding promotion and support
• Adolescent reproductive health education
• Neonatal care and preterm birth prevention
• Childhood immunization programs
• Child malnutrition: Causes and interventions
• Parental influences on child health behaviors
• Teen pregnancy prevention programs
• Access to prenatal care in low-income communities

Health Behavior and Education: Public Health Research Topics

• Health promotion through social media
• School-based health education programs
• Tobacco control and smoking cessation interventions
• Physical activity promotion in communities
• Nutrition education and behavior change
• Substance abuse prevention campaigns
• Sexual health education in schools
• Stress management and mental health promotion
• Community engagement in health initiatives
• Health Literacy and its effect on Individuals’ health outcomes

Global Health Research Topics

• Eradication of infectious diseases in developing countries
• Humanitarian interventions in conflict zones
• Water and sanitation programs in underserved regions
• Access to essential medicines in low-income countries
• Reproductive health in the global context
• International collaborations in health research
• Refugee health and well-being
• Cultural competence in global health practice
• Impact of globalization on health outcomes
• Health diplomacy and international relations

Epidemiology and Biostatistics: Public Health Research Topics

• Surveillance systems for disease tracking
• Statistical methods in epidemiological research
• Spatial analysis in public health studies
• Meta-analysis in health research
• Longitudinal studies in epidemiology
• Big data analytics in public health
• Genetic epidemiology: Advancements and challenges
• Screening methods for disease detection
• Causal inference in observational studies
• Bayesian statistics in health research

Health Equity and Social Determinants: Public Health Research Topics

• Social determinants of health disparities
• LGBTQ+ inclusive healthcare policies
• Racial and ethnic health inequities
• Income inequality and health outcomes
• Access to healthcare in marginalized communities
• Intersectionality and health disparities
• Gender-based health disparities
• Educational attainment and health outcomes
• Housing and its impact on health
• Cultural competence in healthcare delivery
• LGBTQ+ health disparities and inclusivity

Mental Health Research Topics

• Stigma reduction in mental health disorders
• Suicide prevention strategies
• Mental health in the workplace
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) interventions
• Access to mental health services in rural regions
• Child and adolescent mental health programs
• Substance abuse and co-occurring mental health disorders
• Technology-based mental health interventions
• Cultural perspectives on mental health
• Resilience and mental well-being

Health Technology and Innovation: Public Health Research Topics

• Wearable technology in health monitoring
• Artificial intelligence in disease diagnosis
• Mobile health (mHealth) applications
• Telehealth and remote patient monitoring
• The role of citizen science in health innovation
• Health informatics and electronic health records
• 3D printing in healthcare
• Precision medicine and personalized healthcare
• Virtual reality in health education and therapy
• Robotics in healthcare delivery
• Ethical considerations in health technology

Community Health Research Topics

• Community-based participatory research
• Community health assessments and planning
• Grassroots health advocacy
• Community health worker programs
• Social support networks and health outcomes
• Faith-based health initiatives
• Community resilience in health emergencies
• Cultural competence in community health programs
• Community gardens and their impact on nutrition
• Social marketing for health behavior change

Occupational Health Research Topics

• Workplace stress and mental health
• Occupational exposure to hazardous substances
• Ergonomics in the prevention of work-related injuries
• Occupational health and well-being programs
• Worksite health promotion initiatives
• Shift work and its impact on health
• Occupational health surveillance
• Prevention of workplace violence
• Occupational health in the gig economy
• Role of unions in promoting occupational health

Disaster Preparedness and Response: Public Health Research Topics

• Public health planning for natural disasters
• Emergency response coordination and communication
• Mental health support in disaster-affected communities
• Infectious disease control in emergency shelters
• Disaster risk reduction strategies
• Humanitarian aid in post-disaster scenarios
• Community resilience in disaster-prone areas
• Lessons learned from past pandemics for future preparedness
• Public health implications of climate-related disasters
• Technology in disaster response and recovery

Health Economics: Public Health Research Topics

• Cost-effectiveness of preventive healthcare measures
• The economic effect of chronic diseases on healthcare systems
• Healthcare financing models and access to care
• Value-based healthcare delivery
• Pharmaceutical pricing and access
• Economic evaluation of public health interventions
• Health disparities and economic inequality
• Impact of health policies on economic productivity
• Global economic implications of health crises
• Social determinants of economic well-being

Feel free to choose any of these topics for your research or adapt them based on your specific interests and requirements.

Challenges and Opportunities in Public Health Research

Here are some critical challenges and opportunities in public health research:

• The complexity of public health problems – Issues like obesity, cancer, or health inequities have multiple interrelated causes, requiring sophisticated research approaches.
• Data limitations – Public health data may be inconsistent, incomplete, or lack granularity to address specific research questions. There are gaps in data collection.
• Community involvement – Public health research should engage intended populations, but this takes time and trust-building. Historically marginalized groups may be skeptical.
• Policymaker investment – Research needs policymaker buy-in, but political timelines and priorities may not align. Demonstrating the value of research investment can be difficult.
• Funding constraints – Public health research competes for limited funding, especially long-term support needed for community interventions or infrastructure.
• Interdisciplinary coordination – Addressing public health issues requires collaboration across fields like medicine, social sciences, urban planning, etc. This can be complex to coordinate.

Opportunities

• New technologies – Emerging data analysis methods, geospatial mapping, online engagement tools, and more can enable innovative, rigorous research.
• Community partnerships – Strong relationships with local organizations allow the co-design of research that best meets community priorities and knowledge.
• Cross-sectoral collaboration – Partnering with groups in other sectors like education, transportation, and environment brings new perspectives.
• Translation into policy and practice – Timely research translation maximizes opportunities to apply findings for impactful policy and program improvement.
• Capacity building – Investing in researcher training, community involvement, research literacy, and public data access expands quality research efforts.
• Health equity focus – Center health equity goals in research to effectively address the needs of marginalized groups.
• Communication of findings – Using diverse media to communicate findings to various audiences effectively advances research uptake.

Final Remarks

In this blog, we have discussed the public health research topics. Public health research is fundamental to helping keep communities healthy. Researchers study many different health topics and problems. They examine diseases, health programs, healthcare access, and group differences. 

The research gives information to make health policies, create health programs, and help people live longer. There are challenges like limited funding and complex problems. But new technologies and working with local groups can help do good research. 

The findings are used to improve health for everyone. More public health research is needed to address new health problems and help build a healthier world. I hope you enjoyed this post and chose the right public health research topic.

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The studies referenced here were reported in peer-reviewed publications as systematic reviews, hypothesis tests, or predictive analyses. Although the results are valid for the institutions they represent, they may not be valid for other organizations with different technical capacities, project management expertise, organizational culture, or human and economic resources - all of which may affect cost. In addition, these studies may not contain the full technical details of how health information technology was implemented or how it operates. Thus, these results are best used as general guidelines for determining costs and benefits rather than as absolutes, because they may not hold true for all organizations. Please refer to Chapter 4 of "Costs and Benefits of Health Information Technology," AHRQ Publication No. 06-E006, for additional information on the limitations and conclusions of the studies included in the evidence report.

• I am in a four-person practice. What will the cost of an electronic medical record (EMR) implementation be for me?
• We are a small practice being asked to participate in a regional health information exchange. What are the pros and cons of doing this? What workflow and productivity changes can we expect?
• I want to implement computerized physician order entry (CPOE) in my hospital. What is the cost? What are the caveats?
• We are a small practice interested in improving care effectiveness by implementing an electronic health record (EHR) system. What does the research tell us on whether and how we can succeed?
• We've been asked to implement a computerized physician order entry (CPOE) CPOE system as part of a patient safety initiative. What can we really expect in terms of health benefits from CPOE? 

Question 2. We are a small practice being asked to participate in a regional health information exchange. What are the pros and cons of doing this? What workflow and productivity changes can we expect? Checking Data Exchange and all the boxes under cost/benefits outcomes we get the following:

NOTE: Below is an example screenshot of the search criteria you can use. Perform a search on the database .

The second article describes the cost of implementing a health information exchange. The summary is presented below. Estimated cost is $20,000 for software and $15,000 for interfaces per facility.

• Settings : N/A
• Evaluation Method : Mixed methods were used to define the models and estimate costs. An expert panel defined a functional model for a national health information network. The panel achieved consensus through a modified Delphi method. Estimates for costs were based on data taken from the Santa Barbara County Data Exchange, a regional network designed to exchange health data within Santa Barbara County, CA. Secondary data were taken from the 2000 U.S. Census Bureau and the National Center Health Statistics.
• Description : The model delineates a national health information network that is "achievable and desirable" in five years rather than an "ideal infrastructure." The projects expert panel selected the following functional domains to be critical to a national health information network: inpatient/ outpatient results viewing, Electronic Health Records, computerized provider order entry, electronic claims submission, electronic eligibility verification, secure electronic patient communication, and electronic prescriptions.
• Interoperability : The model assumes a brokered peer-to-peer architecture in which data were exchanged over the internet. Interoperability in the model is supported through software interfaces being implemented to allow different Health IT systems to exchange data.
• Barriers : Costs, complexity of integration of information through software interfaces.
• Costs: Total costs to achieve a national health information network in five years were estimated to be $156 billion dollars in capital costs and $48 billion per year in operating costs.
• Cost of Health IT systems : The total cost to achieve functionality of a model network in five years was estimated to be $103 billion in capital costs. The total costs to construct a brokered peer-to-peer communication network was estimated to be $53 billion in capital costs.
• Cost of Implementation : The model used several system cost estimates. Based on cost data from the Santa Barbara County Data Exchange ($35,000-$55,000 per facility) authors estimated software costs for data exchange to be $20,000 per facility as software becomes standardized and nationally produced. The authors estimated costs to create software interfaces needed to exchange data as $15,000 per system for an easy integration (20% of cases), $45,000 per system for a moderately difficult integration (30% of cases) and $90,000 per system for a difficult integration (50% of cases).
• Long-term Cost : Annual yearly operating costs were estimated to be $27 billion per year to maintain system functionality and $21 billion per year to maintain the brokered peer-to-peer communication network. 
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300+ Medical Research Topics & Ideas for Students to Choose

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Every healthcare research begins with a single step. But in the world of academia, that step often involves hours of pondering over the perfect medical research topic idea. When it comes to medical research paper topics, there's a seemingly limitless array of options that stretches as far as the mind can wander. The potential of this field is exciting but can also be challenging to explore.

To help you narrow down your choices and research effectively, our research paper writer team compiled a list of interesting medical research topics. Whether you want to write about the latest developments in public health or explore the implications of emerging technologies, this blog won't disappoint you.

What Are Medical Research Paper Topics?

Medical research topics are the ideas or concepts related to health and medicine. They often explore new treatments, developments in diagnosis, prevention of illnesses, or even the effects of lifestyle choices. The scope of topics in medicine is vast and can include such aspects:

• Clinical medicine
• Biomedical research
• Public health
• Mental health research topics
• Medical technology
• Health services research.

Your choice should stem from your interests and existing gaps that need to be filled.

Characteristics of Good Medical Research Topics

Choosing the right medical topic for a research paper is like finding a golden ticket to a successful study. Here's what makes a medicine research idea a real showstopper:

• Engagement Research should be engaging and relevant to the audience.
• Precision Good ideas are always specific, so that you can focus your research on a particular area without being too vague.
• Authenticity A good topic needs to address an issue that hasn't been studied before.
• Feasibility Ensure your topic is realistic. Good research topics in healthcare should fit within your budget, timeframe, and available resources.
• Relevance Winning medical research project topics should address current and pressing issues in healthcare.

How to Choose a Medical Research Topic?

Selecting the best idea out of multiple medicine research topics can be a daunting task, especially when you have so many fields to explore. Here are a few steps that will help you settle on a theme:

• Brainstorm and come up with as many ideas as possible.
• Narrow down your list by considering factors such as your interest and resources.
• Look for current tendencies in healthcare research.
• Consult your supervisor or a librarian to verify the pertinence of the topic that you have chosen.
• Make sure your topic is specific enough to be addressed within the scope of your project.

Once you come up with a fitting medical research topic, consider half the battle won. But in case you have difficulties creating an original title, our online paper writers prepared a list of research ideas for medical students you might like.

List of Top Medical Research Topics

Below we collected various medical topics to research in your study. From groundbreaking technologies to emerging diseases, there are countless avenues to investigate. If you're on the hunt for a compelling topic, here are some of the top medical researches topics capturing attention in 2023:

• Effective strategies for medical talent acquisition and retention.
• The best methods for enhancing preventative care measures in contemporary medicine.
• The role and impact of telemedicine in reinventing healthcare management.
• Implications of artificial intelligence on diagnostics and treatment plans.
• The rising threat of antimicrobial resistance and its effects on global health.
• The link between environmental changes and public health outcomes.
• Complexities of vaccine development and human immune responses.
• Health inequities: Causes, consequences, and potential solutions.
• New treatment approaches for neurodegenerative disorders.
• A multidisciplinary approach to tackling obesity and metabolic disorders.

Good Medical Research Topics

Navigating countless medical topics for research papers can often feel like a journey through a labyrinth. Here are some intriguing ideas that could ignite your curiosity and fuel your research:

• How does climate change impact human health?
• Communication disorders: A closer look at deafness.
• The hidden dangers of household air pollution.
• The escalating threat of diabetes in the public sphere.
• Coronavirus and how it changed the landscape of public health.
• Assessing oral health: Beyond the basics.
• Tobacco and alcohol control: A public health perspective.
• Health implications of a sedentary lifestyle.
• Urban pollution and its impact on respiratory diseases
• The role of healthy diets in disease prevention.
• Exploring the mental health impact of social media.
• How do cultural factors influence public health initiatives?
• The role of nutrition in managing chronic diseases.
• Investigating the genetics of neurodegenerative disorders.
• What are some ethical considerations in gene editing?

Interesting Medical Research Topics

Exploring the depths of medicine can be an exciting experience. You'll discover that every issue has a plethora of complexities and avenues to investigate. Here are some interesting medical topics for research paper that could pique your curiosity:

• The influence of lifestyle changes on cardiovascular health.
• What are some psychological impacts of chronic illness?
• Connection between gut health and mental well-being.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of telehealth during the pandemic.
• How do genetic factors influence addiction susceptibility?
• Autoimmune diseases and their peculiarities.
• How does stress affect immune function?
• What are some health impacts of sleep disorders?
• The link between socioeconomic status and health outcomes.
• Exploring innovations in pain management.
• Analyzing implications of artificial intelligence in healthcare.
• Effect of climate change on infectious disease patterns.
• A look into advancements in cancer immunotherapy.
• Exploring the potential of stem cells in treating degenerative diseases.
• How does diet influence the progression of Alzheimer's disease?

Easy Medical Research Topics

You may be looking for simple research topics in medicine that won't take too much time and effort to complete. Explore these straightforward ideas that could make your paper stand out:

• Importance of proper sanitation in healthcare settings.
• Exploring the role of patient support groups in disease management.
• Analyzing the efficacy of physical therapy interventions.
• What are the cost-effective interventions for healthcare delivery?
• What are some effects of new pharmaceuticals?
• What are some health consequences of air pollution?
• How does meditation improve outcomes in mental health care?
• Evaluating the role of nutritionists in weight loss management.
• An analysis of trends and patterns in emerging diseases.
• Exploring alternative medicines in contemporary healthcare.
• Examining the impact of healthcare policies on public health outcomes.
• Can the use of herbs provide an effective remedy for certain illnesses?
• How does mental health stigma affect access to treatment?
• Drug abuse: Causes, consequences and prevention strategies.
• What are some psychological issues associated with chronic illnesses?

Best Medical Research Topics

When it comes to choosing medical research topics, you need something that's striking and meaningful. Hover over these ideas to spot the fitting idea for your medical research:

• Exploring new strategies for treating neurological disorders.
• What is the role of medical ethics in modern healthcare?
• What are some implications of genetics in personalized healthcare?
• Exploring innovations in non-invasive diagnosis techniques.
• Effect of temperature on patient outcomes in critical care.
• How does air pollution influence healthcare costs?
• How do changes in lifestyle lead to better health outcomes?
• Implications of electronic health records for patient privacy.
• Role of nutritionists in disease prevention.
• How technology is being used to revolutionize healthcare?
• What are the most effective treatments for rare diseases?
• How have medical imaging techniques advanced over the years?
• Investigating potential treatments for autism spectrum disorder.
• Exploring innovative approaches to mental healthcare delivery.
• What are some implications of artificial intelligence in medical diagnosis?

Controversial Medical Topics for a Research Paper

Navigate through the most contentious research topics in health and explore the debate that surrounds them. Consider these thought-provoking ideas and medical controversial topics:

• Ethical implications of genetic engineering.
• Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide - where do we draw the line?
• Are mandatory vaccinations an infringement on personal freedom or a public health necessity?
• Evaluating medical and legal perspectives on the use of medical marijuana.
• Ethical concerns around animal testing in medical research.
• How do we navigate the morality and legality of abortion?
• Should the criminal justice system focus more on mental health treatment than punishment?
• Is stem cell research a moral dilemma or a medical breakthrough?
• Ethical considerations in organ trading and transplantation.
• Who should shoulder the burden of healthcare costs?
• Is access to healthcare a privilege or a human right?
• Ethics of using placebo in clinical trials – is it justified?
• Assessing the role of Big Pharma in healthcare - is it a necessary evil?
• Can genetic screening lead to discrimination, despite its benefits?
• Should modern medicine take precedence over traditional medicine, or is there room for both?

New Medical Research Topics

Discover the latest studies in healthcare and explore the newest topics for a medical research paper. Below we prepared some cutting-edge topics for you to consider:

• Can gene-editing technologies such as CRISPR transform the treatment of genetic disorders?
• How does microbiome therapy potentially influence the treatment of autoimmune diseases?
• Exploring the advent of personalized medicine through genomics and precision diagnostics.
• How is virtual reality altering the landscape of surgical training and rehabilitation therapies?
• How can telehealth improve healthcare access, particularly in remote and underserved areas?
• The role of nanotechnology in developing more efficient drug delivery systems.
• What are some implications of the rising antimicrobial resistance, and where does the future of antibiotics lie?
• How are advances in non-invasive treatments changing the face of chronic disease management?
• Is precision oncology the future of cancer treatment?
• What are some implications and potential of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering?
• Can advancements in wearable technology revolutionize personal health monitoring?
• How are gut microbiota affecting our understanding and treatment of metabolic disorders?
• What role do nanobots play in medical treatments?
• Can big data analytics be used to improve the accuracy of medical diagnosis?

Medical Research Topics Ideas for Students

There are multiple medical topics to write about. But as a student, you're probably looking for something more specific. For your convenience, we divided the titles by academic levels. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to explore these health topics for research that your professor will surely appreciate.

Medical Research Topics for High School

For students who want to investigate different aspect of healthcare, we provided these examples of ideas. Browse through these medical research topics for high school students to spot the most relevant theme:

• How does the human immune system work?
• Vaccinations as an essential tool in preventing diseases.
• A basic overview of genetic disorders.
• What makes viruses unique?
• How does the body fight off bacterial infections?
• The impact of lifestyle factors on heart health.
• Diabetes: Types, causes, and prevention strategies.
• The importance of mental health in the medical field.
• Skin health: Understanding common skin conditions like acne and eczema.
• Structure and function of the human heart.
• Role of antibiotics and how do they fight bacteria?
• Journey of a pill: From ingestion to action.
• What happens in an allergic reaction?
• How does physical exercise impact the body and mind?
• Racial disparities in healthcare and access to treatment.

Medical Research Topics for College Students

At the college level, you may be asked to write a research paper on a complex issue. We prepared these health research topics for college students to help you get started on your assignment:

• Exploring the implications of health insurance reform.
• Genomic sequencing in the early detection of genetic disorders.
• Machine learning in diagnostic imaging: A new era in radiology?
• The role of diet in the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes.
• Exploring the link between circadian rhythms and health disorders.
• The role of personalized medicine in cancer treatment.
• Development and use of prosthetics in physical rehabilitation.
• Understanding autoimmune diseases: The body fighting itself.
• Addressing health disparities through community-based interventions.
• Inflammation in the development of chronic diseases.
• The rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria: Causes and implications.
• Innovations in drug delivery systems: From nanoparticles to smart pills.
• How can we address the opioid crisis in America?
• Investigating the use of mobile technology for delivering healthcare services.
• Exploring medical implications of 3D printing technology.

Medical Research Topics by Subjects

We've also provided some research topics for medical students grouped by specific subjects. Check them out and pick the one you find most captivating.

Medical Research Topics in Pediatrics

Pediatrics involves the care and health of children. As such, it is a broad field ripe with interesting medical topics. Given the unique physiology needs of these younger populations, pediatric research is crucial for understanding illnesses. Below you can find captivating research topics in pediatrics:

• Exploring the impact of nutrition on childhood development.
• Assessing the effects of screen time on adolescent mental health.
• Investigating genetic factors in pediatric cancers.
• The role of vaccinations in preventing common childhood illnesses.
• Strategies for managing childhood obesity.
• The impact of prenatal exposure to drugs and alcohol on infant health.
• Development and evaluation of therapies for Autism Spectrum Disorders.
• Understanding the rise of food allergies in children.
• Advances in the treatment of congenital heart defects.
• Exploring the causes and treatment strategies for pediatric asthma.
• The impact of environmental toxins on child health.
• Evaluation of therapeutic approaches for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).
• Implications of early life stress on mental health in adolescence.
• The role of gut microbiota in pediatric diseases.
• Understanding the genetic basis of rare childhood disorders.

Medical Research Topics on Anatomy

Anatomy is the study of the organization and structure of the body. It encompasses many topics for medical research papers, from bones and organs to cell structures. Consider these ideas when writing your next anatomy paper:

• The role of genetics in bone fragility disorders.
• A comparative study of the skeletal systems across different species.
• The role and function of the lymphatic system in human health.
• Investigating complexities of the human brain's structure.
• Development and growth of human muscles.
• Impact of aging on bone health and structure.
• Exploring the intricate workings of the human cardiovascular system.
• Understanding structural changes in lungs in chronic respiratory diseases.
• The anatomical basis of speech and language development.
• Neuroanatomy of pain: Understanding pain pathways and mechanisms.
• Structural adaptations of the human body for athletic performance.
• Anatomy of the human eye and its role in vision.
• How does connective tissue support body structures?
• How does endocrine system impact hormone production?
• How does female anatomy change during pregnancy?

Medical Anthropology Research Topics

Medical anthropology looks at health and illness from a cultural perspective. It draws on expertise from across disciplines such as biology, psychology, and sociology to better understand how medical systems can work within different communities. If you’re interested in this field, use these ideas for med research topics:

• Investigating cultural beliefs and practices surrounding childbirth.
• Impact of socioeconomic status on health outcomes in different cultures.
• Understanding the role of traditional medicine in modern healthcare systems.
• An exploration of how cultural beliefs influence mental health perceptions.
• Effect of migration on health outcomes.
• The role of diet and nutrition in health from a cultural perspective.
• Cultural competence in healthcare delivery: Challenges and opportunities.
• Intersection of gender, culture, and health.
• Impact of societal norms and values on disease prevalence.
• Health disparities among indigenous populations.
• Role of social support networks in health and wellness across cultures.
• The impact of stigma on health outcomes in HIV/AIDS patients.
• The role of cultural anthropology in global health interventions.
• Ethnobotany and its implications for drug discovery.
• Understanding health practices in post-conflict societies.

Medicine Research Topics on Physiology

Physiology studies how living organisms function. This branch covers a range of medicine topics and ideas you might like. Here are some suggestions for your next med paper in physiology:

• How does nervous system contribute to the perception of pain?
• What physiological changes are triggered by acute and chronic stress?
• How does regular exercise influence cardiovascular health and overall well-being?
• How do hormones influence our metabolic rate and energy utilization?
• A detailed study on physiological transformations during pregnancy and lactation.
• How does the process of aging affect the function and resilience of various organs?
• Exploring the role of homeostasis in maintaining the body's internal balance.
• What are the key physiological processes involved in the sleep cycle?
• Unraveling complexities of the human digestive system from ingestion to excretion.
• How does the renal system contribute to maintaining blood pressure?
• Physiological adaptations humans undergo when living at high altitudes.
• How does dehydration disrupt normal bodily functions?
• Implications of obesity on respiratory function and efficiency.
• How does the endocrine system orchestrate growth and development?
• Investigating the neurophysiological underpinnings of memory formation and retrieval.

Medical Research Topics on Dermatology

From understanding skin conditions to exploring new procedures, dermatological research is a crucial part of improving skin health. Look through these medical research ideas centered around dermatology:

• Investigating the causes and treatments of acne in adolescents.
• Diet and the development of psoriasis.
• Understanding genetic factors involved in atopic dermatitis.
• Skin cancer: Risk factors, prevention, and treatment strategies.
• How do environmental factors cause skin aging?
• Exploring new treatments for hair loss.
• Understanding the correlation between stress and skin conditions.
• The role of the microbiome in skin health and disease.
• New approaches in the treatment of vitiligo.
• The impact of UV radiation on skin health.
• Exploring the pathophysiology of rosacea.
• The role of telemedicine in dermatology.
• Clinical advancements in the treatment of fungal skin infections.
• The correlation between skin health and mental health.
• Advances in cosmetic dermatology: Safety and effectiveness of new procedures.

Medical Research Paper Topics on Nursing

Nursing is a versatile profession that covers many areas of health care. It’s also an ever-changing field, with new research and advancements being released all the time. Here are some topics for medical research paper focusing on nursing:

• The impact of nurse-patient communication on patient outcomes.
• Exploring the effects of nurse fatigue on job performance.
• How does nurse practitioner autonomy influence patient care?
• Importance of bedside manner in nursing.
• The role of technology in nursing practice.
• Understanding challenges associated with ethical decision-making in nursing.
• How does nurse burnout affect patient safety?
• Analyzing factors contributing to nurse retention and turnover rates.
• The effects of staffing ratios on nurse and patient satisfaction.
• Exploring the role of leadership in nursing practice.
• What are implications of nurse workload on healthcare outcomes?
• The impact of health policy on nursing education and practice.
• Ethical dilemmas faced by nurses in end-of-life care.
• How does culture affect perceptions of healthcare and nursing.
• What are some effects of managed care on nurse autonomy?

>> Read more: Nursing Research Paper Topics

Medical Research Topics on Primary Care

Primary care is the first point of contact between patients and medical professionals. This branch is often overlooked, but it’s an important area of research that can improve health outcomes in communities around the world. Check out these interesting health topics to discuss in primary care:

• Exploring the impact of primary care physician shortages on health outcomes.
• How do socio-economic factors influence health outcomes in primary care?
• Strategies to improve patient adherence to treatment.
• What are some challenges and opportunities of providing mental health services?
• The role of primary care in managing chronic diseases.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of preventive measures in primary care.
• How does patient education influence health outcomes in primary care?
• The role of health technology in improving primary care delivery.
• What are some best practices for managing multimorbidity in primary care?
• Developing effective communication strategies for diverse patient populations in primary care.
• The impact of health policy changes on care delivery.
• How can primary care practices be adapted to meet the needs of an aging population?
• Assessing the effectiveness of integrated care models.
• The role of primary care in addressing health disparities.
• Strategies for improving patient satisfaction in primary care.

Medical Research Topics on Public Health

Public health is an important area of research - understanding how to improve health in communities and prevent illness and injury are crucial skills for medical professionals. Here are some medical related research topics that could kick-start your next project:

• What are the causes, implications and solutions to food insecurity?
• The role of public health in the management of infectious diseases.
• Assessing the effectiveness of smoking cessation programs.
• The role of public health initiatives in combating the obesity epidemic.
• What are some policy interventions that can improve public health?
• The impact of racism and discrimination on public health outcomes.
• Exploring new models for delivering mental health services in underserved communities.
• The impact of urbanization on public health outcomes.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of school-based health education programs.
• Strategies for managing public health crises during natural disasters.
• The implications of antibiotic resistance for public health.
• How can community engagement improve public health initiatives?
• The role of public health in the prevention and control of zoonotic diseases.
• What are the effects of environmental toxins on human health?
• How can mutual efforts reduce maternal and infant mortality rates?

>> View more: Public Health Research Topics

Medical Research Topics on Mental Health

Mental health is an important area of research, as it affects so many people around the world. Here are some medical research paper ideas to get you started on your next mental health project:

• The effectiveness of cognitive-behavioral therapy in treating anxiety disorders.
• How does social media influence adolescents' mental health?
• Exploring the link between gut health and wellbeing.
• The role of mindfulness in managing stress and enhancing mental well-being.
• Understanding the genetic factors in schizophrenia.
• How can stigma associated with mental illness be reduced in society?
• How do traumatic events influence mental health?
• Potential art therapy application in emotional health treatment.
• The role of mental health in managing chronic diseases.
• The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global mental health.
• Understanding the correlation between sleep deprivation and emotional wellbeing.
• Strategies for improving mental health services in rural areas.
• How can nutrition benefit mental health?
• Exploring the effectiveness of peer support in mental health recovery.
• The benefits and challenges of telepsychiatry.

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Medical Ethics Research Topics

Medical ethics is an important direction in healthcare research. Check these fascinating health topics to research for your next paper:

• Exploring moral implications of assisted suicide.
• How do ethical considerations come into play during organ transplantation?
• The ethical conundrum of maintaining patient confidentiality in the digital age.
• The integral role of informed consent in the physician-patient relationship.
• What ethical dilemmas arise from genetic testing and gene editing technologies?
• Ethical considerations of implementing artificial intelligence in healthcare.
• Is it ethical to use placebos in clinical trials?
• Balancing individual rights and public health in the context of a pandemic.
• Navigating ethical issues surrounding end-of-life care.
• Ethical challenges involved in the rationing of limited healthcare resources.
• What ethical considerations are necessary when conducting clinical research in low-resource settings?
• Ethical debate surrounding the use of animals for medical research.
• Ethical questions raised by advancements in reproductive technologies and rights.
• What are ethical implications of mandatory vaccination policies?
• Understanding ethical dilemmas associated with using health data for research.

Extra Medical Research Papers Topics

Medical research is an important topic for many people. Below you can find more medical research topic ideas that didn't fall in any of categories offered above.

Health Research Topics

Health research paper topics are crucial to understanding the effects of trends and developments in the medical field. Here are some ideas to get you inspired:

• How does virtual reality change physical rehabilitation?
• Investigating the effects of pollution on respiratory health.
• The effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions in mental health.
• The role of nutrition in managing cardiovascular diseases.
• Assessing health impacts of climate change.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of health education programs in schools.
• Strategies for promoting mental health in the workplace.
• Investigating the links between diet and cognitive function.
• How does health literacy influence individual health outcomes?
• Implications of stress on immune function.
• Effectiveness of public health campaigns on smoking cessation.
• Exploring the effectiveness of herbal remedies in treating diseases.
• The role of sports in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
• Strategies to reduce the prevalence of substance abuse.
• Pros and cons of electronic record systems in healthcare.

Clinical Research Topics

Clinical ideas are essential for approaching healthcare from a scientific point of view. Find some medical research paper topics to cover in your project:

• Exploring the effectiveness of novel treatments in rare diseases.
• The role of biomarkers in disease diagnosis and treatment.
• How do medical interventions influence patient satisfaction?
• Exploring links between nutrition and cancer prevention.
• How do lifestyle modifications influence diabetes management?
• Understanding the implications of drug interactions.
• How does genetic testing influence medical decision-making?
• What are some challenges associated with disseminating medical evidence?
• Predicting disease progression through machine learning.
• Assessing the accuracy of various diagnostic tools.
• Implications of medical robotics and automation in healthcare.
• Evaluating the impact of patient-centered care on quality outcomes.
• Clinical trials: Challenges and opportunities.
• How can vulnerable populations access medical care?
• How can public-private partnerships benefit healthcare delivery?

Bottom Line on Medical Topics to Research

Choosing healthcare research paper topics can be quite overwhelming. We hope our suggestions will help you in developing an engaging medical research topic for your upcoming project or assignment. Remember to always check with your instructor before starting any project, so that you are aware of all specific requirements.

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• Open access
• Published: 21 October 2024

Medical student use of practice questions in their studies: a qualitative study

• Ryan Sheehy   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0003-2435-7234 1 ,
• Devin Scott   ORCID: orcid.org/0009-0002-3670-0589 2 ,
• Diveena Davis 3 ,
• Marissa Roffler   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-3055-7999 4 ,
• Trevor Sweatman 5 &
• Eric Nemec   ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0001-7794-6732 6  

BMC Medical Education volume  24 , Article number:  1181 ( 2024 ) Cite this article

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Practice questions are highly sought out for use as a study tool among medical students in undergraduate medical education. At the same time, it remains unknown how medical students use and incorporate practice questions and their rationales into their studies. To explore this heavily relied upon study strategy, semi-structured interviews were conducted with second-year medical students to assess how they approach using practice questions. Qualitative thematic analysis revealed several recurrent themes: (1) Medical students use practice questions for primary learning, (2) Medical students place more importance on the rationale of a practice question versus selecting the right answer, and (3) Medical students view practice questions as being designed to be used once or having a single-use. Together, these themes provide insight into how medical students use practice questions to study, which may guide medical educators in their creation of practice questions with appropriate rationales and provide foundational data for future mixed methods analyses seeking to generalize these findings.

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Introduction

At the heart of a professional school is the aim to produce competent professionals. Graduates must not only possess the knowledge of their field but also the ability to correctly apply it. Society expects a licensed clinician to be competent in their craft [ 1 ]. A successful clinician draws on basic science knowledge to inform diagnostic and therapeutic decisions to produce the best possible outcomes for their patients [ 2 , 3 , 4 ]. As adult learners of the basic sciences, medical students prefer to orient themselves through a problem-based approach rather than a subject-centered approach [ 5 , 6 ]. One specific strategy is using online quizzes for self-assessment [ 7 ]. A qualitative study exploring how medical students perceive basic science relevance to clinical rotations found that students relate basic science knowledge to their professional identity and their adaptive expertise [ 2 ]. At the beginning of their careers as medical students, these soon-to-be professionals face the daunting task of mastering an ever-widening body of medical knowledge [ 8 ]. To overcome this hurdle, they rely on many resources to facilitate learning, including the curriculum of their medical school, mentors, fellow medical students, clinical experience, and extracurricular resources such as board preparation materials and practice question banks [ 9 ].

In the United States, medical students are uniquely driven to compete to successfully match as residents after graduation from medical school. Specific use of competitive learning techniques has enhanced learning outcomes in this group [ 10 ]. This competitive drive fuels a strong desire among medical students to streamline their learning to maximize their most precious resource, time. Medical students that successfully manage their time minimize their risk of burnout [ 11 ] and increase their opportunities to pursue extracurricular activities. The desire to streamline learning and best manage their time leads some medical students to shift their learning to electronic resources created within or found outside of the medical school curriculum [ 12 , 13 , 14 , 15 ]. Many of these resources prioritize completing practice questions and committing concepts to memory. Practice questions most often take the form of a single best answer or multiple-choice style question. Completion of practice questions by medical students has been found to be a strong predictor of academic outcomes such as exam performance, course grades, and scores on board exams [ 16 , 17 , 18 ]. A post-exam survey completed by medical students found that a majority of students used 6–8 outside resources in exam preparation [ 19 ]. Contrary to the goal of producing competent professionals, the competitive environment of medical school can prompt a medical student to prioritize a memorization study technique for short-term gain at the detriment to long-term retention and understanding of the material.

Practice questions can be used for short-term gain and long-term material retention. The use of practice questions is a popular study technique among medical students [ 20 ]. Students utilize practice questions as a study technique with great frequency, especially in times of stress and anxiety [ 18 , 21 ]. Practice questions are an excellent way for a student to use retrieval practice to enhance their long-term retention of the material versus repeated studying [ 22 ]. However, practice questions can also be misused if they are used solely for learning rather than self-assessment. Students who used practice questions as a primary source of learning rather than for self-assessment had worse assessment outcomes [ 23 ]. There is a gap in understanding how medical students use practice questions as a study resource.

Despite the high demand and use of practice questions among medical students [ 20 , 21 , 24 , 25 ], little is known about how medical students use practice questions and their rationales in their study process. Rationales are defined as an explanation as to why the correct answer is correct and why the incorrect answers are incorrect. This qualitative research study aims to determine how medical students use practice questions as a study resource. Significant insight into this process has the potential to increase understanding of effective practices for using practice questions to enhance learning outcomes in medical education.

Materials and methods

Study design and sample.

This qualitative research study centered around semi-structured, individual interviews with second-year medical students within the College of Medicine (COM) at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC). The medical degree, Doctor of Medicine (MD), within the COM at UTHSC is a 4-year undergraduate medical education program. Medical students at UTHSC have access to practice questions from a variety of sources. Students have access to faculty generated questions that are posted in the form of a quiz to the learning management system (LMS). Students also have access to questions through a third-party resource called USMLE-Rx (Louisville, KY). Some students purchase access to additional third-party practice question sources. Questions from these sources vary in difficulty. Some can be fact recall, some can be higher order questions, and some integrate multiple disciplines. Faculty generated practice questions attempt to mimic the difficulty of the faculty generated questions that make up the course exams. Recruitment for the study began in the late Spring. In the UTHSC COM curriculum, first year students are still in pre-clinical courses in the late Spring, whereas second year students have taken the Step 1 United States Medical Licensing Exam (USMLE) and progressed to clerkships. At this stage of the curriculum at the UTHSC COM there are no true second year students. Recruitment of students to participate in the study continued over the Summer and into the Fall semester. Students that had or were being interviewed for this study were in the second-year cohort. Frist year students were not added to be recruited for this study as the authors had a greater interest in how medical students used practice questions to study during the pre-clinical curriculum. At the beginning of the Fall semester, first-year students had been exposed to a limited amount of the pre-clinical curriculum and would more than likely answer interview questions based on their educational experiences prior to medical school. First year medical students were excluded from the study as including them may have introduced confounding variables from their prior training that could have obfuscated the findings. Second-year medical students were the primary focus over more senior medical students, as there was greater interest amongst the authors in how medical students used practice questions to study during the pre-clinical curriculum. Medical students interviewed were beginning their second year of study and likely possessed a successful study routine due to passing their first-year courses. To identify potential research participants, an email was sent through the class email distribution list to recruit students from the entire second-year class. For participating in the study, research participants were provided with a free coffee thermos. Medical students that were a part of the three-year MD program cohort were excluded from the study. Sampling and recruitment were stopped once thematic saturation was reached. In total, ten interviews were conducted and included in qualitative thematic analysis. The class contains 180 students. Therefore, 5.5% of the class was interviewed. To protect the confidentiality of our research participants, demographic characteristics of research participants were not collected. Interview questions focused primarily on the research question. Ethical approval for this research study was obtained from the IRB at UTHSC and the Homewood IRB at Johns Hopkins University. The consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research (COREQ) was consulted as a checklist for reporting this research [ 26 ]. A completed COREQ checklist is included in the supplemental section.

Data collection

The interview guide used in this study was developed for this study. The interview guide included the following questions: (1) How do you use practice questions and their rationales in your studies?(2) Do you always use practice questions this way, or does it change based on other factors? (3) [after being handed a sample practice question (appendix 1 )] Can you talk me through how you use this practice question to study? Clarifying questions included: (1) Can you explain that to me? (2) Can you tell me more about that? One investigator (D.S.) conducted the interviews. D.S. is not associated with the COM at UTHSC; he is an Instructional Consultant, with a PhD in Communications, housed within the UTHSC campus Teaching and Learning Center. D.S. conducted and recorded the interviews anonymously using the Zoom platform. Zoom was also used to generate initial transcripts of the interviews. A different member of the research team (D.D.) edited, updated, and confirmed these transcripts using the audio-video recordings of the interviews. D.D. is a member of the staff within the Office of Medical Education within the COM at UTHSC. To preserve anonymity of the research participants, all names and personal identifiers were removed prior to qualitative thematic analysis. Prior to the initiation of the interview, a brief informed consent statement was presented orally to research subjects. A research subject’s willingness to participate in the study constituted documentation to their consent. In an attempt to avoid potential bias, the principal investigator (R.S.) was not disclosed to be a part of the research study prior to initiation of interviews. R.S. served as the Assistant Dean of the Pre-Clinical Curriculum within the COM at UTHSC. R.S. was revealed to be the principal investigator of the study to the research participants once saturation was reached and data collection ceased.

Data analysis

Transcripts from the first ten interviews were used to build initial codes for qualitative thematic analysis. Impactful text segments and quotations that stood on their own formed the basis of analysis [ 27 ]. R.S. and D.S. independently determined codes and sub-codes after individually reading through the interview transcripts. Deidentified interview transcripts were hand-coded after being uploaded into a qualitative analysis software, Dedoose ® (Manhattan Beach, CA, USA). Dedoose aided in generating initial codes and in developing and reviewing themes. D.S. uses qualitative methods as a part of his scholarship and has a background in qualitative methods from his PhD training. D.S. viewed the data through the lens of an instructional consultant and his interactions with faculty at UTHSC. R.S. also has a background in qualitative methods from his Master of Education in the Health Professions (MEHP) degree. R.S. viewed this data through the lens of a teaching faculty member within the pre-clinical curriculum and as an academic administrator. After an initial analysis D.S. and R.S. met to share findings and to reconcile a single set of codes. A third analyst (M.R.) also reviewed the transcripts independently and acted as a tiebreaker during this reconciliation process. M.R. is a psychology professor and has a background in cognition and qualitative methods in her Experimental Psychology PhD training. M.R. viewed this data through the lens of an educator and as an experienced qualitative researcher. Interview transcripts were again read by D.S. and R.S. to develop themes independently. The qualitative data from the interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis to determine patterns of meaning [ 28 ]. M.R. again acted as a tiebreaker as all three data analysts agreed on themes. At this time, sampling ceased due to the saturation and appearance of similar codes and repeated themes in the analyzed transcripts [ 29 , 30 ]. Reported here are the thematic qualitative findings with corresponding representative quotations.

All interviewees were familiar with the use of practice questions and their rationales as a study strategy in medical school. Identified themes center on how second-year medical students use practice questions to learn, the identification of the rationale as the most important part of the practice question, and how practice questions are perceived as being designed to be used once or having a single-use as a study tool.

Using practice questions to learn

Medical students use practice questions for self-assessment; however, the timing of their use in proximity to an exam and student reliance on practice questions during dense sections of the curriculum suggests they also use them for memorization and primary learning. Dense courses in medical school are defined as those that cover topics not typically encountered at the undergraduate level, including pharmacology and pathology, over a condensed period.

One participant stated their heavy use of practice questions in a dense course that takes place in the Spring of their first year of training as follows:

There was just so much information and so I used practice questions more regularly throughout the block rather than just concentrating at the end. Just because it was just a lot and that was a good way for me to quickly understand it and get it in my mind.

Another participant agreed when they stated:

Yeah. Probably when we did our CMOD [Common Mechanisms of Disease] block , there was common mechanisms of disease. There was just so much information and so I used practice questions more regularly throughout the block rather than just concentrating at the end.

This same participant went on to describe how they used practice questions early on in medical school:

Something like Anatomy ,  which was our first semester , I used to do just five questions a day on Grey’s Anatomy book. It doesn’t matter if I actually know the questions. Because that way , it can actually help me to think through it. That was like first semester , which I just barely started medical school.

Confidence played a role for one participant as they declared, “I think depending on how I’m feeling. If I feel less confident about something, then I will do more practice questions. If I feel pretty confident, then I will not.” When asked if the participants felt like practice questions were an effective use of their time for studying, one participant replied, “I think it’s probably the most effective use of your time. I think almost all medical students will use practice questions exclusively for the last couple years.”

Importance of practice question rationales

Medical students place more emphasis on the rationales and determining the reasoning of why correct answers are correct and why incorrect answers are incorrect than they do on selecting the right answer choice and using test-wise skills to come to a correct answer prior to looking at the rationale.

One participant disclosed this about practice question rationales:

Rationales are the most important ones because – I don’t think it’s a matter of just getting one question right especially in practice. I think what matters is organizing and then making sure my thinking process is correct. And then so something like , I have this thinking process. And then most of the time I confirm whether this is the right thinking process and when rationales are not good - I can’t confirm what changed.

Another participant discussed the importance of rationales and their differing use based on timing. They stated:

Probably 3 , 4 , 5 days before the exam , I’m looking at rationales pretty closely. The day before the exam , I’m not really looking at - it’s more like getting quick – I’m trying not to like study things super in depth the day before the exam because I’m just trying to see a lot of things. So [it’s] more about consolidating those details. I guess I’m not really sure. The rationales 5 , 6 days before the exam…rationales really helped me figure out , what are the high points of things that won’t take me a long time to study but that if I can just review them quickly , they’ll add a handful of extra points to my total , you know. Things that I can clarify right now for the next 10 min , and then I’m solid on it for the exam.

When given an actual practice question, one participant shared their process for using the practice question and rationale:

For this , I would probably – just because this one I’m not really sure – I would probably not answer the question and then review the material and then come back to it because I feel like if I were to just randomly guess and then look at the rationale ,  it’s just kind of a waste of an opportunity to actually check myself and sometimes practice questions are harder to find. There’s certain subjects that maybe there’s a ton ,  and I’d be less concerned about that then , but still just kind of a waste of my time , I think.

In relation to determining the reasoning of the practice question rationale, one participant asserted, “So a lot of the times when using the rationale for why something is incorrect, I like to kind of rewire my understanding of something and make sure I understand this is why you should rule out this answer.”

Practice questions as single-use study tools

Another emergent theme was that medical students interviewed did not use retrieval practice with their use of practice questions as medical students view practice questions as being designed to be used once as a study tool.

When a participant was asked about their use of practice questions and their reusability, they stated:

I like to say I do , but I typically…I don’t , like I should , but I don’t. Because I’ve tried that and what happens is I end up just knowing the answers based on previous questions. So , if I had more questions , that will be better.

When asked about reviewing a single practice question multiple times, one participant stated:

If I get it right , I typically don’t review them. If I get it wrong , I might. It depends , because usually I do practice questions in sections right. So , if it’s a test on eMedley [learning management system] …if I get like a core percentage on the overall then I’ll do that again like maybe the next day or a couple days later. But if I did pretty good overall then I just won’t look at the practice questions again.

Some participants stated that they use practice questions to guide future studies using the flashcard program Anki. If a knowledge gap was identified after reading the rationale of the question or if the participant selected the wrong answer, they would go back to find Anki flashcard decks or make their own flashcards to review the topic.

One participant specifically described this process:

I usually make flashcards based on the questions , based on the main ideas so I can remember it down the line… So , I would either find premade ones already related to the topic or make one specifically for the portion I missed… I basically read the explanation and try to find cards or make my own notes on aspects that I missed , always the facts that the explanations give.

Practice questions can be used for short-term gain, long-term material retention, and are a popular study technique among medical students [ 20 ]. The findings of this qualitative study indicate that the way medical students who participated in interviews use practice questions in their studies differ based on the density of the learning topic or differences in learning goals. Thematic analysis of interviews with second-year medical students suggests that while medical students use practice questions for self-assessment, the timing of when medical students use practice questions in relation to exams and medical student reliance on practice questions in dense courses indicates that medical students often use practice questions both for review and for primary learning. The finding that multiple medical students described only using practice questions to study immediately before the exam and how they place more emphasis on the rationale versus the question itself supports the conclusion that students use practice questions for both primary learning and self-assessment. Cognitive Load Theory (CLT) is a theoretical framework that suggests that learners have a limited working memory capacity that can be easily overloaded with new information [ 31 ]. This theory divides cognitive load into three types: intrinsic (the complexity of the subject matter), extraneous (the way information is presented to the learner), and germane (the work put into creating a permanent store of knowledge). Given the preference to use practice questions immediately before an exam, it would be reasonable to conclude that they can help reduce extraneous cognitive load by guiding learners to focus on the essential elements of the material. By engaging with practice questions, learners are actively processing information, organizing it into coherent structures, and integrating it with their prior knowledge, thereby reducing germane load. This process helps in forming deeper understandings and long-term retention of the material; however, again, given the proximity to the exam, it’s questionable if this practice allows for retention in working memory versus long-term memory. Last, considering exam preparation, practice questions may also help manage the intrinsic cognitive load by breaking down complex information into smaller, more manageable parts.

Multiple medical students indicated that they used Anki for retrieval practice; however, medical students tended to view practice questions as having a single-use. This indicates that medical students may not be using practice questions as faculty intend them to be used multiple times as a tool for self-assessment. Practice questions allow students to actively recall learned information and use retrieval practice to enhance their long-term retention of the material versus repeated studying [ 22 ]. CLT would posit that a better use of practice questions could perhaps be incremental, where learners can gradually build up their understanding over time without overwhelming their working memory. However, medical students may not use practice questions optimally if they are used for primary learning rather than self-assessment. Self-Regulated Learning (SRL) theory in medical education emphasizes the importance of learners’ active control over their own learning processes [ 32 ]. It involves setting goals and monitoring and regulating cognition, motivation, and behavior toward achieving those goals. Practice questions have a significant role in SRL by helping students set goals, monitor, and regulate their learning, reflect on their performance, stay motivated, build self-efficacy, adapt to new information, manage their time effectively, and develop resilience. Students reported preference for using practice questions for primary learning may assist students in feeling they’ve achieved their own goals by completing a certain number or a complete section of practice questions.

Constructivism posits that learners construct their own understanding and knowledge of the world, through experiencing things and reflecting on those experiences [ 33 ]. In medical education, the constructivist approach can be particularly useful because it mirrors the way medical practitioners encounter and solve problems in the real world. Construction of knowledge occurs on already existing knowledge. Anki has substantial question banks, which makes it an appealing application to allow students to check their knowledge [ 34 ]. However, using questions to construct new knowledge seems inefficient. Similarly, the repeated use of practice questions would help in developing and refining schemas for medical knowledge; however, we were surprised to see that students considered them one use only.

Students who used practice questions for self-assessment rather than as a primary source of learning had better assessment outcomes [ 23 ]. Self-assessments that use practice questions should be thoughtfully inserted, in regard to timing and availability, into the curriculum to optimize their ability to promote learning and to best take advantage of adult learning theory [ 7 , 35 ]. The results of this study suggest that the ways in which medical students use practice questions may not maximize the capacity of the practice question to best enhance their learning outcomes.

Limitations and future directions

Future mixed methods studies should focus on generalizing findings from this thematic qualitative analysis and exploring new connections between existing quantitative data sets. The themes generated in this study can be used to craft a class-wide medical student survey or to expand research to multiple medical student populations from different institutions to test these findings and to assess generalizability. Additionally, comparing the qualitative findings reported here with quantitative data from a learning management system (LMS) may provide additional insights into practice question use by medical students. LMS data would allow for reliable quantitative information on how medical students use practice questions by giving insight into the number of practice questions completed, time spent on individual practice questions, time spent on practice question quizzes, the number of times a student completes the same practice question, and the time between quiz access and a unit exam. Artificial intelligence (AI) may also play a role in future studies due to ease of access and its ability to generate practice questions [ 36 ]. There are several limitations that must be acknowledged with this study. A pilot study at a single institution limits its generalizability; however, given this is the first attempt that authors know of to quantify these data, it still serves an important, hypothesis-generating purpose for future studies. It remains to be determined how generalizable this finding is in the greater medical student population; another limitation to the study is a self-selection bias. Similar findings were seen in another study where medical students were found to highly utilize practice questions as a study technique, especially in times of stress and anxiety [ 21 ]. While the authors took great care in our methodology using individual thematic analysis of faculty at two different institutions, there remains the possibility of subjectivity whereby our own experiences might have influenced the identified themes [ 37 ].

Significant insight into the ways in which current medical students use practice questions has the potential to increase understanding of how best to integrate practice questions within coursework and curricula to enhance learning outcomes in undergraduate medical education. Identified uses do not consistently align with what could be expected from established learning theories. Investigating medical student study utilization of practice questions in their studies may allow for the future blending of techniques students already use with best teaching and learning practices to create a new practice question platform to optimize medical student satisfaction and learning outcomes.

Data availability

Select quotes supporting the qualitative thematic analysis are provided within the manuscript. Full transcripts are included as supplementary information files.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge the support of the College of Medicine at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center and the University of Kansas School of Medicine, Salina campus for this research study. This project was completed as a component of the degree Master of Education in the Health Professions (MEHP) within Johns Hopkins School of Education.

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Marissa Roffler

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All authors made substantial contributions to this manuscript. R.S., M.R., T.S., and E.N. contributed to the design of the work. D.S. and D.D. contributed to the acquisition of data. R.S., D.S., and M.R. contributed to the analysis of the data. R.S., D.S., M.R., and E.N. contributed to the interpretation of the data. R.S. initially drafted the manuscript with revisions provided by D.S., M.R., and E.N. All authors have approved the submitted version of this manuscript.

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The Role of Public Opinion Polls in Health Policy

Published: July 29, 2024

Health Policy 101:

• KFF Authors:

Mollyann Brodie

Ashley Kirzinger

KFF Authors: Mollyann Brodie , Liz Hamel , and Ashley Kirzinger

Table of Contents

Introduction.

Polls and surveys are useful tools for understanding health policy issues. However, it takes time and training to understand how to interpret survey results and to decide which polls are useful and which might be misleading. The aim of this chapter is to help you learn how to be a good consumer of polls so they can be a valuable part of your toolkit for understanding the health policy environment. It begins by discussing why polls are an important tool in policy analysis and the caveats to keep in mind when interpreting them. It then discusses polling methodology and the questions you should ask to assess the quality and usefulness of a poll. The chapter ends with some real-world examples in which polling helped inform policy debates.

People sometimes ask if there is a difference between a “poll” and a “survey.” The quick answer is that every poll is a survey, but not every survey is a poll (for example, large federal surveys like the Census or surveys of hospitals or other institutions would not be called polls). For purposes of this chapter, we use the terms interchangeably.

Why Should You Pay Attention to Polls at all?

Polls have gotten a bad rap over the past few years, particularly around election times when they don’t do a perfect job predicting who the winner of a given election will be. Given this, you may wonder why you should pay attention to polls when trying to understand health policy. There are six basic reasons why it’s important for health policy scholars to understand public opinion:

• People vote , and elections can have important consequences for health policy at the local, state, and national levels. While polls may not always be perfect predictors of election outcomes, they are one of the best ways to understand the dynamics of how voters are thinking and feeling when weighing their vote choices, not only for high-profile offices like President and Congress, but for state and local races and ballot initiatives as well.
• Public opinion can influence policy choices , particularly for highly salient issues, like health care, that touch pretty much everyone’s lives in some way. While the average member of the public may not be equipped to understand the details of most health policy legislation, their preferences and views can put constraints on lawmakers by identifying actions that would be deemed unacceptable by large majorities of the public or their constituents.
• Polls can also provide information about the broader environment in which health policy issues or changes are being debated. They can help you understand the salience of a given issue (i.e., how much do people care about prescription drug prices and how closely are they paying attention to debates over how to lower them?) and identify other factors that might affect the likely success of a given policy (i.e., if the country’s attention is focused on a foreign policy crisis, how will that affect the public’s reaction to a major new proposal to overhaul Medicaid?).
• Beyond measuring opinion, surveys can also be useful for understanding how health policy is affecting people . Survey questions about people’s experiences can offer context by providing information like the share of people who are struggling to afford their health insurance. Looking at questions like these at multiple points in time can also help you understand how experiences change in the months and years following enactment of major health legislation.
• Surveys can help amplify the voices of real people in policy debates , particularly those that are often ignored or drowned out by special interests.Polling that includes adequate sample sizes to represent the voices of marginalized and underrepresented populations, such as members of racial and ethnic minority groups, immigrants, LGBTQ individuals, people living in rural areas, and those with lower incomes, may be especially useful for understanding the impact of health policy on people.
• In this way, methodologically sound, non-partisan, transparent surveys can serve as a counterweight to polls sponsored by special interests that are conducted in private and used to craft public messages, design campaigns, or sell products.

Caveats to Polling

Polls do not tell the whole story . Public opinion is just one part of the political and policymaking process. Public support for a given policy may seem clear based on a single survey question, but it can be quite malleable in the course of a public debate, and not all surveys measure this malleability. Small changes in survey question wording can sometimes lead to big changes in public support, so it’s important never to rely on a single question from a single poll to make a conclusion about what the public thinks or knows. When possible, look for multiple questions on the same topics from multiple polls conducted at various times. If the answers are consistent, you can be more confident that the conclusion is correct. Sometimes a poll finding conflicts with your best sense of political reality when all available information is considered. In those instances, there’s a good chance your “gut” is a better guide than what a given poll tells you.

There are limits to polling on complex topics like health care. When the public says they support a specific proposal for lowering health care costs, it doesn’t mean they have fully thought through the details of that proposal and its implications. Rather, it may signal how important they think it is for policymakers to address the high cost of health care. And while some polls test this by asking follow-up questions that probe the public about trade-offs to any given policy approach, some health policy topics are just too complicated to reasonably ask the average American to weigh in on in a short survey.

Public opinion can’t give you the “right” answer. While public opinion can tell you where the public stands on an issue, it cannot tell you what the right policy solution is in any given situation. For example, pollsters often ask people to rank the priority they give to different health issues before Congress. They may ask the public to rank the issues of prescription drug costs, the future of the Affordable Care Act, Medicaid expansion, the financial sustainability of Medicare, and so forth. But it turns out that real people aren’t organized like congressional committees and don’t put the issues neatly into policy buckets like pollsters do. What they are concerned about is the cost and affordability of health care, a concern that cuts across these issues. These ranking questions provide some information about what resonates most with the public, but that doesn’t mean they should be treated as a rank-ordered list for policymakers to address starting from the top down. In addition, beyond telling you what the public thinks, polls can be just as useful for pointing out what the public doesn’t understand about a given policy issue, allowing you to direct outreach and education efforts or figure out messaging that will resonate with the public if you are advocating for a policy change.

Understanding the Methods: Questions to Ask about Polls

The science of survey research is complicated, but there are a few simple terms you can learn and questions you can ask when you encounter polls in your schooling and daily life. These include:

Population. Who is the population that the survey is claiming to represent? Polls can be conducted with many different populations, so it is important to know how researchers define the population under study. For example, a survey of voters may be useful for your understanding of a particular health care issue’s importance in the election, but it might not be as useful for estimating how many people have had problems paying medical bills, since lower-income people (who may be the most likely to experience bill problems) are less likely to be voters and may be left out of the study entirely.

Sampling. How did researchers reach the participants for their poll, and was it a probability or non-probability sample? In a probability-based sample , all individuals in the population under study have a known chance of being included in the survey. Such samples allow researchers to provide population estimates (within a margin of sampling error) based on a small sample of responses from that population. Examples of probability-based sampling techniques include random digit dialing (RDD), address-based sampling (ABS), registration-based sampling (RBS), and probability-based online panels. Non-probability sampling , sometimes called convenience or opt-in sampling, has become increasingly common in recent years. While non-probability surveys have some advantages for some types of studies (particularly their much lower cost), research has shown that results obtained from non-probability samples generally have greater error than those obtained from probability-based methods, particularly for certain populations .

Data collection (survey mode). While there are many ways to design a survey sample, there are also many ways to collect the data, known as the survey mode. For many years, telephone surveys were considered the gold standard because they combined a probability-based sampling design with a live interviewer. Survey methodology is more complicated now , but it is still important to know whether the data was collected via telephone, online, on paper, or some other way. If phones were used, were responses collected by human interviewers or by an automatic system, sometimes known as interactive voice response (IVR) or a “robocall”? Or were responses collected via text message? Depending on the population represented, different approaches might make the most sense. For example, about 5% of adults in the U.S. are not online, and many others are less comfortable responding to survey questions on a computer or internet-connected device. While young adults may be comfortable responding to a survey via text message, many older adults still prefer to take surveys over the phone with a live interviewer. Some populations feel a greater sense of privacy when taking surveys on paper, while literacy challenges may make a phone survey more appropriate for other populations. Many researchers now combine multiple data collection modes in a single survey to make sure these different segments of the population can be represented.

Language. Was the survey conducted only in English, or were other languages offered? If the survey is attempting to represent a population with lower levels of English language proficiency, this may affect your confidence in the results.

Survey sponsor. Who conducted the survey and who paid for it? Understanding whether there is a political agenda, special interest, or business behind the poll could help you better determine the poll’s purpose as well as its credibility.

Timing. When was the survey conducted? If key events related to the survey topic occurred while the survey was in the field (e.g., an election or a major Supreme Court decision), that might have implications for your interpretation of the results.

Data quality checks. During and after data collection, what data quality checks were implemented to ensure the quality of the results? Most online surveys include special “attention check” questions designed to identify respondents who may have fabricated responses or rushed through the survey without paying attention to the questions being asked. Inclusion of these questions is a good sign that the researchers were following best practices for data collection.

Weighting. Were the results weighted to known population parameters such as age, race and ethnicity, education, and gender? Despite best efforts to draw a representative sample, all surveys are subject to what is known as “non-response bias” which results from the fact that some types of people are more likely to respond to surveys than others. Even the best sampling approaches usually fall short of reaching a representative sample, so researchers apply weighting adjustments to correct for these types of biases in the sample. When reading a survey methodology statement, it should be clear whether the data was weighted, and what source was used for the weighting targets (usually a survey from the Census or another high-quality, representative survey).

Sample size and margin of sampling error. The sample size of a survey (sometimes referred to as the N) is the number of respondents who were interviewed, and the margin of sampling error (MOSE) is a measure of uncertainty around the survey’s results, usually expressed in terms of percentage points. For example, if the survey finds 25% of respondents give a certain answer and the MOSE is plus or minus 3 percentage points, this means that if the survey was repeated 100 times with different samples, the result could be expected to be between 22%-28% in 95 of those samples. In general, a sample size of 1,000 respondents yields a MOSE of about 3 percentage points, while smaller sample sizes result in larger MOSEs and vice versa. Weighting can also affect the MOSE. When reading poll results, it is helpful to look at the N and MOSE not only for the total population surveyed, but for any key subgroups reported. This can help you better understand the level of uncertainty around a given survey estimate. The non-random nature of non-probability surveys makes it inappropriate to calculate a MOSE for these types of polls. Some researchers publish confidence estimates, sometimes called “credibility intervals,” to mimic MOSE as a measure of uncertainty, but they are not the same as a margin of sampling error. It’s also important to note that sampling error is only one source of error in any poll.

Questionnaire. Responses to survey questions can differ greatly based on how the question was phrased and what answer choices were offered, so paying attention to these details is important when evaluating a survey result. Read the question wording and ask yourself – do the answer options seem balanced? Does the question seem to be leading respondents toward a particular answer choice? If the question is on a topic that is less familiar to people, did the question explicitly offer respondents the chance to say they don’t know or are unsure how to answer? If the full questionnaire is available, it can be helpful to look at the questions that came before the question of interest, as information provided in these questions might “prime” respondents to answer in a certain way.

Transparency. There is no “gold seal” of approval for high-quality survey methods. However, in recent years, there has been an increasing focus on how transparent survey organizations are about their methods. The most transparent researchers will release a detailed methodology statement with each poll that answers the questions above, as well as the full questionnaire showing each question in the survey in the order they were asked. If you see a poll released with a one or two-sentence methodology statement and can’t find any additional information, that may indicate that the survey organization is not being transparent with its methods. The American Association for Public Opinion Research has a Transparency Initiative whose members agree to release a standard set of information about all of their surveys. For political polling, 538 recently added transparency as an element of their pollster ratings . Some news organizations also “vet” polls for transparency before reporting results, but many do not. This means that just because a poll or survey is reported in the news doesn’t necessarily mean it’s reliable. It’s always a good idea to hunt down the original survey report and see if you can find answers to at least some of the questions above before making judgments about the credibility of a poll.

Election polling vs. issue polling. Election polls – those designed at least in part to help predict the outcome of an election – are covered frequently in the media, and election outcomes are often used by journalists and pundits to comment on the accuracy of polling. Issue polls – those designed to understand the public’s views, experiences, and knowledge on different issues – differ from election polls in several important ways. Perhaps the most important difference is that, in addition to the methodological challenges noted above, election polls face the added challenge of predicting who will turn out to vote on election day. Most election polls include questions designed to help with this prediction, and several questions may be combined to create a “likely voter” model, but events or other factors may affect individual voter turnout in ways pollsters can’t anticipate. Election polls conducted months, weeks, or even days before the election also face the risk that voters will change their mind about how to vote between the time they answer the survey and when they fill out their actual ballot. Issue polls do not generally face these challenges, so it’s important to keep in mind that criticisms about the accuracy of election polls may not always apply to other types of polls.

Examples of the Usefulness of Polls in Understanding Health Policy

Example #1: tracking the evolution of public opinion and experience through debate, passage, and implementation of the affordable care act.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is the largest health legislation enacted in the 21 st century. From the time the legislation was being debated in Congress through its passage, implementation, and efforts to repeal it, the ACA has been the subject of media coverage, political debate, campaign rhetoric, and advertising. In each of those stages, polls and surveys have provided important information for understanding what was happening with the law.

Prior to passage, polls showed the public’s desire for change in health care, particularly when it came to decreasing the uninsured rate and making health care and insurance more affordable. Despite this apparent consensus on the need for change, polls also helped shed light on some of the barriers to passing legislation. For example, survey trends demonstrated how the share of the public who expected health reform legislation to leave their families worse off increased over the course of an increasingly public debate in which opponents tapped into fears about how the proposed law might change the status quo.

After the law was passed, public opinion on the ACA was sharply divided along partisan lines, with majorities of Democrats viewing the law favorably and majorities of Republicans having an unfavorable view. However, surveys also painted a more nuanced picture beyond the overall partisanship, showing that majorities of U.S. adults across partisan lines favored many of the things the ACA did, including allowing young adults to stay on their parents’ insurance until age 26, preventing health plans from charging sick people more than healthy people, and providing financial subsidies to help lower- and moderate-income adults purchase coverage. At the same time, polls showed that many adults were not aware that these provisions were part of the ACA, and that many others incorrectly believed the law did things it did not, such as creating a government-run insurance plan and allowing undocumented immigrants to receive government financial help to purchase coverage.

This combination of “the parts more popular than the whole” and incomplete public knowledge of the law provided some insight into why efforts to repeal the law were ultimately unsuccessful despite the relative unpopularity and deep partisan divisions on the law overall. When faced with the very real prospect of the popular parts of the law going away – particularly the protections for people with pre-existing health conditions – the public (and particularly Democrats and independents who had previously expressed lukewarm support) rallied to protect it. In fact, following concerted Republican efforts to repeal the law in 2017, the ACA has remained more popular than ever , with more adults expressing a favorable than an unfavorable opinion .

In addition to providing information about the public’s evolving opinion and awareness of the law, surveys also helped provide information about people’s experiences under the law. For example, a 2014 survey of people who purchase their own insurance found that 6 in 10 people enrolled in insurance through the new marketplaces were previously uninsured, and that most of this group said they decided to purchase insurance because of the ACA. Subsequent surveys showed that most marketplace enrollees were satisfied with their plans, but many reported challenges related to the affordability of coverage and care.

These are just a few examples of the ways surveys helped provide insights into the dynamics of a complex health policy at different points in time.

Example #2: Understand the limits of public support of Medicare-for-All proposals

Another health policy issue where polls have provided useful information is the debate over a national, single-payer health plan. While the idea has been discussed for decades, public discussion was prominent most recently during the 2016 and 2020 Democratic presidential primaries, when Senator Bernie Sanders made “Medicare-for-all” a centerpiece of his campaign. Since 2017, a majority of U.S. adults have supported the idea of a national Medicare-for-all plan, but once again, polls also indicated why such a proposal had never become a political reality. For example, the public’s reaction to the idea varies considerably based on the language used to describe it; while majorities view the terms “universal coverage” and “Medicare-for-all” positively, most have a negative reaction to “socialized medicine,” and many are unsure how they feel about the term “single-payer health insurance.” Surveys also demonstrate that while support starts out high, many people say they would oppose a Medicare-for-all plan if they heard common arguments made by opponents, such as that it would lead to delays in treatments, threaten the current Medicare program, or increase taxes. Polls like these and others that test different messages can help shed light on the public’s likely reaction to real-world debates over policies, helping us understand some of the reasons why certain policies that seem to attract majority support in the abstract face an uphill battle once public debate and discussion about them begin.

Example #3: Understanding the impact of the Supreme Court’s overturning of Roe v. Wade

Polls can also help shed light when sudden events create policy changes that immediately affect individuals’ access to health care in different scenarios. A recent example is the Supreme Court 2022 decision in Dobbs v. Jackson that overturned Roe v. Wade and eliminated the nationwide right to abortion that had been in place since 1973. The Dobbs decision opened the door for states to pass their own abortion regulations, and many states had previously established “trigger laws” that made abortion illegal as soon as Roe was overturned.

Polls before and after the 2022 midterm election indicated how the overturn of Roe affected voter motivation, turnout, and vote choice. For example, polling in October 2022 showed abortion increasing as a motivating issue for voters, particularly among Democrats and those living in states where abortion was newly illegal. And election polling of voters showed how the Supreme Court decision played a key role in motivating turnout among key voting blocs that likely contributed to the Democratic party’s stronger-than-expected performance in the midterms.

Understanding the impact of Dobbs is an area where polling of specific populations (including grouping individuals by the abortion laws in their state) is more useful than looking at the U.S. population as a whole. For example, in addition to shedding light on the dynamics of abortion as an election issue, polling in 2023 indicated widespread confusion about the legality of medication abortion, particularly among people living in states that had banned or severely limited the procedure. Surveys also shed light on the experiences of people living in different states; for example, a 2024 survey found that 1 in 5 women of reproductive age (18-49) living in states with abortion bans said either they or someone they know had difficulty accessing an abortion since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade due to restrictions in their state.

Example #4: Amplifying the voices and experiences of marginalized populations

Well-designed surveys of under-represented groups can provide important information about health policy by amplifying the opinions and experiences of those whose voices are often left out of policy debates. Examples include:

• A survey of 2023 Medicaid enrollees documented the coverage status of people who were disenrolled during the Medicaid “unwinding” process. Beginning in March 2020, states kept people enrolled in Medicaid without the need to renew or re-determine eligibility under a law passed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. When the law expired in March 2023, it was uncertain how individuals and families would be affected. Surveys like this helped document the impact of the policy change on people’s coverage status and access to care.
• A survey of U.S. immigrants shed light on the health and health care experiences of a group that makes up one-sixth of the adult population. Among other findings, this survey showed that half of all likely undocumented immigrants in the U.S. lacked health insurance coverage, information not previously available from other data sources. It also illustrated the importance of state policies in determining coverage rates for immigrant adults, documenting the much higher uninsured rate among immigrants living in states with less expansive coverage policies (like Texas) compared to those in states with more expansive policies (like California).
• A survey of trans adults documented this population’s struggles accessing appropriate health care. Among other findings, this survey found that almost 4 in 10 trans adults said it was difficult to find a health care provider who treats them with dignity and respect, 3 in 10 said they had to teach a provider about trans people in order to get appropriate care, and 1 in 5 had health insurance that would not cover gender-affirming treatment. Importantly, these survey findings help increase understanding of the health care experiences of a group that is often marginalized in U.S. society, and one that also faces other barriers, including economic challenges, higher rates of mental health challenges and unmet needs for mental health care.
• A survey focused on racism, discrimination, and health showed the extent of discrimination and unfair treatment in health care settings. This survey found that large shares of Black, Hispanic, Asian, and American Indian and Alaska Native adults reported preparing for possible insults or being very careful about their appearance in order to be treated fairly during health care encounters. It also showed how individuals who have more visits with providers who share their racial and ethnic background report more positive health care experiences. These findings provide insights into possible policy solutions to improve care, highlighting the importance of a diverse health care workforce that is trained in culturally appropriate care.
• Surveys of areas impacted by natural disasters also help provide information to guide recovery efforts in these areas. For example, a survey of Hurricane Katrina evacuees living in Houston-area shelters documented the physical and emotional toll of the storm and the disproportionate impact on lower-income, African American, and uninsured residents. A series of surveys of New Orleans residents in the years following Katrina showed steady progress in many areas of recovery, but highlighted how the gap between the experiences of the city’s Black and White residents grew over time in many ways. Surveys of Puerto Rico residents following Hurricane Maria and Texas Gulf Coast residents following Hurricane Harvey provided similar insights to shine a lens on disparities and highlight the needs of the local populations in those areas.
• KFF Polling
• American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR): Student Resources , Best Practices , Election Polling Resources , and Transparency Initiative
• Roper Center for Public Opinion Research , including their iPoll database
• Pew Research Center: Short course on polling basics, Methods 101 videos, and Decoded blog

Brodie, M., Hamel, L., & Kirzinger, A., The Role of Public Opinion Polls in Health Policy. In Altman, Drew (Editor), Health Policy 101, (KFF, July 2024) https://www.kff.org/health-policy-101-the-role-of-public-opinion-polls-in-health-policy (date accessed).

• U.S. Department of Health & Human Services

NIH’s CARE for Health Primary Care Research Network: Connecting the Lab, the Clinic, and the Community

Posted on October 8th, 2024 by Dr. Monica M. Bertagnolli

Since I became NIH Director last year, one key principle has guided my vision and approach: Our work is not finished when we deliver scientific discoveries; our work is finished when all people are living long and healthy lives.

But unfortunately, we’re seeing some alarming trends in the health of the U.S. population. It’s a bit of a puzzle. On one hand, significant advances in biomedical research over the last several decades have led to lifesaving interventions for a range of diseases and conditions. At the same time, the overall health of the people in this country appears to be stalled and even getting worse.

Looking at one measure of health, U.S. life expectancy is no longer steadily increasing—in fact, we’ve had a decline in life expectancy over the last decade. And though this included a dramatic drop because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the rate was declining before that. Life expectancy in the U.S. is also low compared to peer nations , even though we spend much more money on our health system. Disparities in mortality also persist among certain racial and ethnic groups and geographic regions . Our health is determined not only by the genes we inherit from our parents, but by our environment and social and economic factors. We know that in the U.S. today, your zip code can significantly impact your health.

I believe that biomedical research can play a key role in reversing these trends. In my first blog post , I explained how one of my goals as NIH Director is to ensure that the biomedical research enterprise is more inclusive to people from all walks of life, and I noted we can engage more communities as our research partners by meeting people where they are. Despite having the knowledge and technology to do so, our research and advances are not reaching everyone they should. Many people are not adequately represented in clinical research, and research data is especially lacking for people who are older, uninsured, belong to minority groups, or live in rural locations. Many people also face barriers to participating in clinical research, such as arranging and paying for transportation, getting time off from work and coordinating childcare, or lack of trust in medical institutions. To address these concerning trends in health, we need to do a better job of connecting the lab, the clinic, and the community.

In September, we moved closer to this goal by announcing awards as part of a new NIH primary care clinical research network that aims to improve access to and involve communities in the clinical research that informs medical care. The Communities Advancing Research Equity for Health™ or  CARE for Health ™ program will actively engage communities historically underrepresented in clinical research. This effort is very close to my heart, as I was born and raised in a rural community, and I’d like to tell you more about how it will work.

In this program, NIH will connect with primary care providers and their patients, giving them access to research and the opportunity to participate in clinical trials. By engaging people on the front lines of health care—in the primary care clinician’s office—we will build an infrastructure that leads to sustained relationships with primary care providers and patients and earns people’s trust. Many of the areas of the country where we want to focus do not have medical specialists, and primary care providers are often the only practitioners available for every health challenge. Through CARE for Health, we want to integrate clinical care with research to support knowledge generation that meets the needs of people in all communities.

The awards we’ve announced, totaling over $5 million in funding for the first year, will support three Network Research Hubs to establish the program’s initial infrastructure. The first awardee institutions are Oregon Health and Science University, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, and West Virginia University. These institutions will participate in three ongoing NIH-funded clinical trials that cover a range of topics important to primary health care, including pain management, opioid and polysubstance use, and gout, with many more studies on areas important to diverse communities to come in the future. Overall, NIH is investing approximately $30 million in total over fiscal years 2024 and 2025 to pilot the program, which is supported through the NIH Common Fund. After the first year, we will aim to broaden the program so communities throughout the country can participate.

CARE for Health is a new paradigm for biomedical research. NIH has never had a network for the primary care medical environment that works across all 27 Institutes and Centers of NIH. We are starting it with a pilot program because we know that for a program of this scale, we first need to learn from our research teams and from the primary care clinicians who are going to help us bring this kind of research to their communities. We will also ask community members what their health priorities are and allow them to select the research studies that are most meaningful to them. In the future, CARE for Health partners will have a long menu of studies to pick from based on local interests and needs.

Ultimately, we believe that this program will have a meaningful impact on health outcomes, especially among those who have been previously underrepresented and underserved in medical research.

Bertagnolli MM. Connecting lab, clinic, and community . Science . DOI:10.1126/science.adq2140 (2024).

NIH Support: NIH Common Fund

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Posted In: Health , News , Science

Tags: biomedical research , CARE for Health , community health , health disparities , life expectancy , primary care , rural health care

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Views on abortion, 1995-2024.

• Views on abortion by religious affiliation
• Views on abortion by party identification
• Views on abortion by political party and ideology
• Views on abortion by gender
• Views on abortion by race and ethnicity
• Views on abortion by age
• Views on abortion by level of education

Public Opinion on Abortion

While public support for legal abortion has fluctuated somewhat in two decades of polling, it has remained relatively stable over the past several years. Currently, 63% say abortion should be legal in all or most cases, while 36% say it should be illegal in all or most cases.

% of U.S. adults who say abortion should be …

Source: Survey of U.S. adults conducted April 8-14, 2024. Data since 2019 is from the Center’s online American Trends Panel; prior data is from telephone surveys. Data for 1995-2005 is from ABC News/Washington Post polls; for 2006, an AP-Ipsos poll.

PEW RESEARCH CENTER

Views on abortion by religious affiliation, 2024

About three-quarters of White evangelical Protestants (73%) think abortion should be illegal in all or most cases. By contrast, 86% of religiously unaffiliated Americans say abortion should be legal in all or most cases, as do 71% of Black Protestants, 64% of White nonevangelical Protestants and 59% of Catholics.

% who say abortion should be ___, by religion (2024)

Source: Survey of U.S. adults conducted April 8-14, 2024.

Views on abortion by party identification, 2024

Among Republicans and independents who lean toward the Republican Party, 57% say abortion should be illegal in all or most cases. By contrast, 85% of Democrats and Democratic leaners say abortion should be legal in all or most cases.

% who say abortion should be ___, by party identification (2024)

Views on abortion by political party and ideology, 2024

Conservative Republicans and Republican leaners are far more likely to say abortion should be illegal in all or most cases than to say that it should be legal (71% vs. 27%). Among moderate and liberal Republicans, 67% say abortion should be legal, while 31% say it should be illegal.

The vast majority of liberal Democrats and Democratic leaners (96%) support legal abortion, as do about three-quarters of conservative and moderate Democrats (76%).

% who say abortion should be ___, by party and ideology (2024)

Views on abortion by gender, 2024

Majorities of both men (61%) and women (64%) express support for legal abortion.

% who say abortion should be ___, by gender (2024)

Views on abortion by race and ethnicity, 2024

Majorities of adults across racial and ethnic groups express support for legal abortion. About three-quarters of Asian (76%) and Black (73%) adults say abortion should be legal in all or most cases, as do 60% of White adults and 59% of Hispanic adults.

% who say abortion should be ___, by race and ethnicity (2024)

* Estimates for Asian adults are representative of English speakers only. Note: White, Black and Asian adults include those who report being one race and are not Hispanic. Hispanics are of any race.

Views on abortion by age, 2024

Among adults under age 30, 76% say abortion should be legal in all or most cases, as do 61% of adults in their 30s and 40s. Among those in their 50s and early 60s, 57% express support for legal abortion, as do 59% of those ages 65 and older.

% who say abortion should be ___, by age (2024)

Views on abortion by level of education, 2024

About two-thirds of college graduates (68%) say abortion should be legal in all or most cases, as do 64% of those with some college education. Among those with a high school degree or less education, 56% say abortion should be legal in all or most cases, while 41% say it should be illegal in all or most cases.

% who say abortion should be ___, by education level (2024)

Note: Here are  the questions used in these surveys , and information about  the Center’s polling methodology .

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ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER  Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan, nonadvocacy fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It does not take policy positions. The Center conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, computational social science research and other data-driven research. Pew Research Center is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts , its primary funder.

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