Importance of mixed methods research in pharmacy practice

Abstract

Irrespective of the field of research, the underpinning methodologies used are critical in generating high-quality data and evidence. Most importantly, the method selected should answer the research question that has been posed. It is important to accept that no single method will answer all research questions, and in the field of health services and pharmacy practice research, there may be a number of questions that will form part of an overarching programme or project. In such circumstances, more than one method will be required to answer all the research questions within a single programme or project, an approach known as mixed methods. This chapter provides an overview of the current definition of mixed methods research and the advantages and limitations of this approach. The importance of mixed methods research in pharmacy practice and the considerations required when designing and analysing a mixed methods research study or programme are outlined. The various typologies of mixed methods research are described using illustrative examples from the pharmacy practice research literature, and guidance is provided on choosing the most applicable type/typology for a given research question. Key considerations in appraising and reporting mixed methods research are also outlined.