Multilevel modelling in primary care research

摘要

The association between an individual's particular characteristics and the context within which s/he lives has been the subject of research for social and health scientists for some time.1-3 This work has had an impact on research in primary care, with the increasing use of cluster randomised controlled trials throughout the world. Recent examples have included a study evaluating the effects of injury prevention training on the knowledge, attitudes and practices of midwives and health visitors in the UK4; a study that assessed the long-term effectiveness of the ‘green prescription’ on the health of 40–79 year-old patients in New Zealand5; and a study evaluating the effectiveness of a multi-factorial intervention in reducing falls in older people in residential homes in Sweden.6