Integrating mixed-methods research into healthcare

writers and researchers concerned with the process of mixing different research methods and approaches to research generally. ’ Mixed-methods research has indeed generated a great deal of interest amongst researchers of late; although I am not sure that I would use the term ‘excitement ’ to describe this interest. Additionally, it should be observed that social scientists have been mixing methods and data sources for decades. Thus, mixed-methods research is not a new phenomenon, despite its growing popularity. Certainly, the discourse of mixed-methods research has become more visible in recent years, as evidenced in the proliferation of research texts, papers, dedicated conferences and special editions of journals (including this one!). And of course ultimately the launch of the new Journal of Mixed Methods Research (due out in 2007). It is easy to agree with Bryman (2006) when he suggests that there is a need to evaluate the current state of play with regard to mixed-methods research, to take stock as it were, both across and within disciplines. What indeed is the added value that mixed methods approaches to research brings to health care and specifically t