As I understand it, the distinction between efficacy and effectiveness relates to the type of trial:
An efficacy study measures the effect of the treatment in an ideal clinical setting, staffed by people who are focused on explaining, providing, and monitoring the treatment optimally. If such a study is negative, the treatment is unlikely to be effective in any real-world setting.
An effectiveness study measures the treatment in a real-world setting, staffed by people who have many patient problems and treatments to manage with the typically constrained resources--especially of attention. If such a study is negative but an efficacy study was positive, the treatment may need to be provided in specialty settings. If such a study is positive, the treatment is likely to be effective in standard practice.
Jim
James M. Walker, MD, FACP
Chief Medical Information Officer
Geisinger Health System
The best way to predict the future is to invent it.
- Alan Kay
>>> jo kirkpatrick 04/24/12 3:58 PM >>>
Hi Laura
I think it is quite an interesting question, I will enjoy reading what the great minds in EBH make of it. I always assumed that the effectiveness of a treatment can be measured from its recorded efficacy, when compared to a control group receiving no effective treatment. The initial result of efficacy by the end of treatment is usually combined with results from follow up studies to record any long term effects, in order to analyse the treatment's overall effectiveness.
In any case there are no silly questions, only silly answers, which I am sure we are all occasionally guilty of giving.
Best wishes Jo
________________________________
From: Laura Harris
To: [log in to unmask]
Sent: Tuesday, 24 April 2012, 16:47
Subject: Probably a VERY silly question ...
Hi All,
I know this is probably a very silly question (and I feel foolish for asking it) but I am wrong in thinking that RCTs (generally) do not measure the effectiveness of a treatment but the efficacy? If I am wrong can someone explain to me what is it about an RCT that separates it from an efficacy study?
Many thanks,
Laura
Laura Harris
PhD Student
School of Social Sciences & Social Work
Faculty of Health, Education and Society
University of Plymouth, Rm 301 Hepworth House, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA
t: +44 (0) 1752 586980 Email: [log in to unmask]
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