What is the primary distinction between qualitative and quantitative data in healthcare?

The primary distinction between qualitative and quantitative data in healthcare lies in their fundamental nature: qualitative data is subjective, while quantitative data is numerical and measurable.

Qualitative data captures in-depth insights into patient's experiences, perceptions, and feelings, often gathered through interviews, open-ended survey questions, or observational studies. This type of data provides rich, detailed information that can help healthcare professionals understand complex issues such as patient satisfaction or the impact of illness on quality of life.

On the other hand, quantitative data consists of numerical values that can be measured and analyzed statistically. This includes data such as blood pressure readings, lab test results, or demographic information. Quantitative data allows for objective comparisons and the ability to draw conclusions based on statistical analysis.

This distinction is crucial in healthcare, as both types of data serve different purposes and provide valuable insights that contribute to patient care and decision-making processes.