Researchers have developed and tested a checklist that aims to evaluate comparative effectiveness research and distinguish real-world studies that are good enough for decision-making about treatments.

An agreed-upon set of assessment elements is important, say co-developers Quintiles and the National Pharmaceutical Council. Called the Good ReseArch for Comparative Effectiveness (GRACE) checklist, it features 11 items about research and data methods, based on existing literature and guidance from experts, and was published in the March issue of Journal of Managed Care Pharmacy.

GRACE stands out, said Quintiles Global Chief of Scientific Affairs and SVP Nancy Dreyer, lead author of the study, because it’s been tested by “collaborators from public and private sectors in North and South America, Europe, Asia and Africa.”