In market research, the term fieldwork refers to the collection of primary data from external sources, often followed by processing, analysis, and reporting. The fieldwork process may include a wide variety of methodologies covering both quantitative and qualitative, including observation, surveys, interviews, and focus groups. In the medical field it is imperative that all research and data processing is conducted in line with set standards to meet strict guidelines set out by organisations such as the FDA.
Dedicated healthcare fieldwork agencies work to organise and conduct market research on behalf of device manufacturers and are highly trained across a range of regulations and guidelines, including data protection. By working to gather suitable respondents across even the most specific or ‘difficult’ criteria, recruiters can ensure fieldwork happens.