What aspect of studies does QUADAS evaluate?

The QUADAS (Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies) tool specifically focuses on evaluating the quality of diagnostic accuracy studies. This framework is designed to assess how well studies that evaluate diagnostic tests are conducted, ensuring that the methodologies used are robust and that the findings are credible. It emphasizes aspects such as the selection of participants, the blinding of assessors, and whether the tests were evaluated against a reliable reference standard.

This focus on diagnostic studies is crucial because it helps determine how accurately a test can identify or rule out a condition, which is vital for informed clinical decision-making. In contrast, the other aspects listed—statistical analyses, therapeutic interventions, and patient-reported outcomes—are evaluated through different tools and frameworks that are tailored to those specific areas of research. This distinction illustrates the targeted nature of QUADAS in assessing diagnostic accuracy rather than broader clinical or statistical aspects.