Conclusion
External validity and related concepts present unique challenges to
distributed data networks due to the diverse array of populations
included in analyses. Fortunately, Sentinel, CNODES, and PCORnet
recognize these challenges and have developed their own solutions and
analytic strategies tailored to the needs and users of the network.
Still, more research needs to be done on analytic methods for addressing
external validity, target populations, generalizability, and
transportability within the networks.
Acknowledgements: None.