EPM5006

Clinical biostatistics ( 6 points, SCA Band 2, 0.125 EFTSL)

Leader: Prof A. Dobson

Offered:
Clayton Second semester 2005 (OCL)
MMS-ALFRED Second semester 2005 (OCL)

Synopsis: This unit involves practical applications of statistical methods in clinical and diagnostic settings. The underlying statistical theory will be presented as support, using a series of case studies the various methods will be presented in a clinical context with appropriate practical interpretation. Students will learn to apply methods for assessment of clinical agreement, the statistical properties of diagnostic tests and their interpretation, statistical and ethical issues involved in screening tests, and the fundamentals of modelling for clinical prediction. Students will be actively engaged in an in-depth analysis of issues in systematic reviews of medical research studies.

Objectives: On completion of this course students should be able to: 1. demonstrate a broad understanding of statistical methods in evidence-based health care; 2. determine appropriate statistical methods of particular relevance to evidence-based health care in particular clinical applications; and 3. correctly employ these statistical methods and have the skills to effectively communicate with clinicians on the application of these methods and interpretation of results.

Assessment: Five written assignments

Prerequisites: MPH1040 & EPM5002

Corequisites: EPM5003