Special skills and procedures are necessary in order to collect primary data from patients, families, or community members. Given that the primary data collection scope is limited, researchers should employ the latest methods of data collection. The key informant strategy is one such approach to collecting primary data. Researchers employ this strategy in collecting information pertaining to specific domains. World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe holds that accurately selected key informant is necessary with regard to special domains because she/he is knowledgeable in the field, and will provide more credible and less biased data compared to the public. However, it is important to give adequate attention to choosing key informants in order to circumvent possible biases.
Another strategy involves collaboration with reputable organizations such as national agencies and international organizations conducting health surveys. In addition, researchers may seek support or approval from big organizations including local and international organizations. The researcher’s use of standard data collection instruments such as the WHO Survey instrument, whether partial or wholly, may help to increase the cooperation of the participants. In addition, the use of quality assurance equipment for data collection is important.
In general, the researcher should be cautious to employ data collection strategies that promote participant cooperation and trust. Researchers should also accord increased consideration to sensitive matters. The research must take into account participant privacy and confidentiality. The researchers must also acquire credible papers from popular organizations and the authorities. The researchers should also disguise participants’ identities by use of codes. All these factors are put together to ameliorate the credibility of the research and the authenticity of the data collected.