POPULATION SELECTION

There are two components to population selection where measurable program effectiveness is desired.

1.  Establish the criteria that qualify a patient for enrollment.
2.  Establish a valid comparison group strategy that will allow comparison
     on all of the important aspects of the intervention.

EmmData tools assist in quantifying the potential impact of interventions. Well-articulated criteria allow predictions, both clinically and financially, of what should happen if the intervention is a success.



As part of the population selection determination, a valid comparison or control group strategy should be determined. In senior populations in particular, with the realities of increased failing health over time, pre and post measures have a more limited role than they might in other situations. (Regression to the mean plays out differently where the severity of the means being measured is increasing because of increasing age.) There are multiple options for creating a valid control group, and all should be explored depending on the nature of the intent to treat group, resources, and time frame of the intervention.