Determining the sample size is an important step of planning a sample design. Too small a sample may diminish the utility and precision of the results, while too large a sample consumes excess time and effort …

The U.S. Government increasingly uses statistical analysis and data mining to identify fraud and abuse in the healthcare market. A key tool in the Government’s arsenal is RAT-STATS software, which is used to sample and quantify improper claims, which then become the basis for damages and monetary penalties.  As a result, providers, compliance officers and legal professionals must understand the methodologies used by the Government to perform its analysis.  Understanding potential weaknesses in the Government’s analysis is also imperative to a sound defense. This post provides guidance on both fronts…

Consider the concept of statistical inference (i.e. extrapolation).  Following the proper design, selection and analysis of a sample, we can assume the characteristics witnessed in the sample can be reasonably estimated (i.e. inferred) for the total population … extrapolation expert