Qualitative Research Methods for Medicine and Health Sciences

Qualitative research methods are crucial for addressing central questions arising from clinical and organisational practice. In medicine and healthcare, knowing and scientific knowledge cannot be reduced to what is measurable. They also involve subjectivity, interpretation, diagnostic reasoning, interaction and ethical judgement. This book develops a coherent methodological framework in which these dimensions are treated as integral to knowledge development, not as residual or secondary concerns.

The opening chapters establish the philosophical foundations for a qualitative methodology grounded in applied healthcare practice and committed to the role of subjectivity. Ontological assumptions about health and illness are made explicit and systematically linked to epistemological and methodological choices. Subsequent chapters guide the reader through the core stages of the research process – from design and data development to analysis and interpretation – consistently clarifying how underlying assumptions shape methodological approaches and conclusions. Empirical examples illustrate methodological reasoning, critical decisions and common pitfalls. Rather than offering a broad survey of qualitative traditions, the book presents a coherent, practice-based approach that safeguards the scientific legitimacy of qualitative research on its own terms.

Written primarily for students and researchers new to qualitative methods at bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels in medicine and healthcare, the text also invites more experienced scholars to reflect critically on established methodological practices.