Effective Sampling of Rare Population Elements

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Efficacious sampling methods are needed to recruit representative samples of under-represented research populations. The purpose of this article is to describe and evaluate a step-by-step methodological approach for sampling rare populations (e.g., Black female caregivers and noncaregivers). Using the Medicare Enrollment Database, the researchers conducted a reverse screening strategy and a case-control design to obtain a systematic random sample of the caregivers. After revision of the recruitment strategy and referral goals, the researchers recruited 202 caregivers and 206 noncaregivers. The proportion of elders with caregivers was 11.8 percent compared with a projected yield of 8 percent. Lessons were learned regarding efficiency in sampling methodology, including the importance of having the potential participants respond to an open-ended question regarding their understanding of the study participation, providing agencies with detailed specifications of requested lists, and not allowing the obtained list to age. This article provides a road map for sampling rare populations.