Practical utility of mixed methods research in pharmacy practice

Abstract

Purpose: Our aim was to review key methodological concepts and provide a practical guide to employing mixed methods research to enhance pharmacy practice research.

Summary: Mixed methods research provides multiple organized analytic perspectives to thoroughly investigate complex social and scientific problems in a methodologically rigorous manner. This research design incorporates collection and analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data components to create a thorough understanding of a complex question. The 5 most commonly identified reasons for conducting mixed methods research include triangulation, complementarity, development, initiation, and expansion of results. For research questions that benefit from mixed methods research, we review how to structure the study, including timing, sequencing, and prioritization of methods. Illustrative examples from the literature highlight the utility of this methodology for clinical and operational pharmacy research questions.

Conclusion: Mixed methods designs can enhance pharmacy research inquiry, provide a means to understand complicated issues, and uncover optimal interventions.

Keywords: methodology; methods; pharmacy; qualitative research; research; statistics.