What type of research simply investigates the effectiveness of a treatment without attempting to investigate why the treatment is effective?

Outcome research focuses on measuring the results of a treatment or intervention to determine its effectiveness in achieving specific objectives, such as improving patients' health or enhancing quality of life. This type of research does not delve into the mechanisms or underlying reasons that contribute to the treatment's effectiveness; rather, it examines the end results and outcomes associated with the treatment.

In this context, outcome research is essential for assessing which treatments work best for specific conditions based solely on observed results. Such research may utilize various data sources to track how well patients fare after receiving a particular treatment, which helps to inform clinical practices and guidelines. This method allows for the evaluation of effectiveness in real-world settings without the need to explore the intricate processes or reasons behind the observed results.