May 17, 2026
Explore how causal inference and target trial emulation can strengthen evidence from real-world and observational studies.
Innovative causal inference methods are increasingly needed to support comparative effectiveness research using large real-world datasets and pragmatic trials. This course introduces foundational principles of causation and demonstrates how causal methods can be applied to address both time-independent and time-dependent confounding in observational research.
Technical Topics Include:
Principles of causation in comparative effectiveness research
Use of causal diagrams, including directed acyclic graphs (DAGs)
Methods for time-independent confounding, including multivariate regression and propensity scores
Methods for time-dependent confounding, including g-formula, marginal structural models, and structural nested models
Target trial emulation and counterfactual approaches using real-world data
This Course Includes Tools and Concepts That Can Be Immediately Applied, Including:
Case examples from oncology, cardiovascular disease, HIV, nutrition, and obstetrics
Practical guidance on applying causal methods to large observational datasets
Interpretation of causal results based on underlying analytic methods
Interactive discussion grounded in published literature
This course is designed for researchers, statisticians, epidemiologists, health economists, and policy decision makers seeking to better design, analyze, or interpret causal analyses using real-world data.
PREREQUISITE: Students are expected to have a basic knowledge in epidemiologic studies and methods (including the concept of confounding).
LEVEL: Experienced
TRACK: Real World Data & Information Systems
This short course is offered in-person at the ISPOR 2026 conference. Separate registration is required. Registration coming soon. Visit the ISPOR 2026 Program page to learn more.
FACULTY MEMBERS
Schedule:
LENGTH: 4 Hours | Course runs 1 day
Tuesday, 17 May 2026 | Course runs 1 Day
ISPOR short courses are designed to enhance knowledge and techniques in core health economics and outcomes research (HEOR) topics as well as emerging trends in the field. Short courses offer 4 or 8 hours of premium scientific education and an electronic course book. Active attendee participation combined with our expert faculty creates an immersive and impactful learning experience. Short courses are not recorded and are only available during the live course presentation.