Background: We must rely on observational data to answer CER questions when randomized experiments are not available. However, inferring causality from observational studies is complex. A generic and user-friendly web-based tool to guide the design of causal inference studies is currently being developed.
Aim: To describe an effort to develop a web-based tool, CERBOT (CER Based on Observational Data to Emulate a Target Trial) for better comparative effectiveness research using observational data. The tool is designed to be used by a team of researchers, patients and stakeholders. CERBOT guides users conduct their observational analyses by 1) articulating their research question in terms of a hypothetical randomized trial (the target trial) and 2) specifying how to emulate the target trial using observational data.
Methods: The tool builds up from a conceptual framework--causal inference based on observational data can be viewed as an attempt to emulate a randomized clinical trial (the target trial). There are five modules included in CERBOT, each with multiple components comprised of a parallel process of Specification and Emulation of the target trial.
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