Biostatistics Department

The Biostatistics Department was established in 1982 to provide statistical support to the clinical and research staff of Scott & White, Texas A&M Health Science Center and their affiliates. The staff is comprised of biostatisticians, who consult with investigators on study design and provide analyses of study results; and data management specialists, who design data forms, key study data and maintain close contact with study coordinators and research assistants.

Areas of Activity

Study Design: The statisticians will meet with investigators in the early stages of the development of a research study to discuss the experimental design to be employed. This includes determining the sample size requirements and the statistical techniques to be used in the eventual analysis of the study data.

Study Management: For randomized studies, the department provides randomization listings in the form of a log or in sealed envelopes. Monthly recruitment reports are sent to investigators, and appointment reminders are generated for studies requiring patient follow-up.

Data Management: The data managers create data collection forms to be completed by study personnel. Completed forms are keyed into a secure database, and the keyed data is passed through several quality assurance steps to ensure completeness and accuracy of the study data.

Data Analysis: The biostatisticians perform the data analysis using SAS (Statistical Analysis System) software. Written reports are provided describing the analyses of both short term studies and studies with long term recruitment and follow-up. Interim analyses of randomized studies are performed at regular intervals.

Data Presentation: The biostatisticians work closely with the Photography, Illustrations and Publications Departments to produce high quality graphs and figures for slides, posters and scientific publications.

Education: The biostatisticians give talks and short courses on various topics in study design or statistical methodology. They are also available to assist with the interpretation of statistical analyses presented in the medical literature.

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