Observational versus intervention research

In the case of intervention research, the investigator deliberately alters conditions to be able to pass judgment on the consequences of the intervention.

In the case of observational research, the investigator does not alter the existing situation, but only wants to describe and document it. Examples of this are research into patient check-ups, transverse (cross-sectional) studies and cohort research. The CCMO views burden and exertion tests which are part of an observational study as non-therapeutic interventions. It is for this reason that these studies have to be submitted for review to the CCMO.