In the article, Methodological Challenges Associated with Meta-Analyses in Health Care and Behavioral Health Research, Shinogle (2013, p. 4) defines meta-analysis as “a commonly used methodology to combine findings from several studies in order to improve the power of these studies as well as the precision of the estimated effect. “ She further indicates that the steps to conduct a meta-analysis should follow the same steps as any well-designed research project.
Make sure to also read: Jonas, D.E., Carbutt, J.C., Amick, H.R., Brown, J.M., Brownley, K.A., Council, C.L., Viera, A.J., Wilkins, T.M., Schwartz, C.J., Richmond, E.M., Yeatts, J., Evans, T., Wood, S.D., and Harris, R.P.. (2012). Behavioral Counseling After Screening for Alcohol Misuse in Primary Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis for the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Annals of Internal Medicine,157 (9), 645-654.
For this discussion question, you will apply what you have learned about guidelines for reviewing a meta-analysis to an actual meta-analysis conducted by Jonas et al. After reading these articles respond to the statement below based on your application of the criteria to the study by Jonas, et al.
Discuss your interpretation of the following statement as it applies to the Jonas article, noting the strengths and weaknesses of the meta-analysis conducted utilizing the framework by Shinogle.
“Meta-analysis, when conducted appropriately, can reveal the weaknesses and strengths of previous studies as well as point to future studies and provide useful, important information.” (Shinogle, 2013)
