Nejc Mekiš*

University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy Department,t Zdravstvena pot 5, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia

*Corresponding author: Nejc Mekiš, University of Ljubljana, Faculty of Health Sciences, Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy Department, Ljubljana, Slovenia, mail: nejc.mekis@zf.uni-lj.si

DOI: https://doi.org/10.17532/dzn.2023.004

Abstract

Research in the broadest sense, is a cornerstone of human progress. It expands our knowledge, deepens our understanding, drives innovation, and promotes technological progress. It enables us to recognize and overcome challenges, encourages critical thinking and leads to the development of new theories and frameworks. In the field of health sciences, research plays an even more important role as it addresses the pressing needs of an aging population that is putting increasing strain on healthcare systems.

To meet the demands of this growing population, healthcare professionals must provide the highest quality of care. This can only be achieved through continued advances in health sciences driven by rigorous research efforts. Health sciences research is critical to the development of evidence-based medicine, which is the foundation for effective and patient-centered care.

Researchers are constantly developing innovative and creative methods to address complex questions. The research process embodies a systematic and meticulous approach involving the painstaking collection, organization, and analysis of information to illuminate our understanding of specific topics or research questions. This process is indispensable for solving healthcare dilemmas, making informed decisions, and advancing knowledge.

The two primary research approaches, qualitative and quantitative research, each contribute valuable insights to the field of health sciences. Qualitative research looks at the nuances of human experience and explores perceptions, beliefs and behaviors. In contrast, quantitative research focuses on numerical data and uses statistical methods to analyze relationships and patterns. Both approaches are important to understanding the complexity of health sciences and the best possible care for the patient.