Professional help should be sought at various stages of epidemiological work:
- Study Design: When planning a study, expert advice can ensure that the methodology is sound and that the study will yield valid and reliable results. - Data Collection and Analysis: Professionals can provide guidance on the best practices for collecting and analyzing data. - Interpreting Results: Expert interpretation can help in understanding the implications of study findings. - Policy Development: When developing public health policies, professional input ensures that decisions are evidence-based.