Here we explain the research methods we use to create each project on this website. We use qualitative research methods to understand how people experience illness and make treatment choices. A systematic collection of interviews, carefully analysed, is just as important in qualitative research as well-designed, randomised controlled trials and systematic reviews are in quantitative research into the effectiveness of medical interventions.

These methods have been recommended by the NHS National Knowledge Service as the ‘gold standard’ for research into patient experiences. We have been accredited with the Information Standard, the NHS quality mark for health and social care information.