Stepped Wedge Cluster Randomized Trial

A stepped wedge cluster randomized trial is an experimental design where clusters (e.g., schools, hospitals, communities) are randomized to receive an intervention in a phased, staggered manner over time. First formally described by Hussey and Hughes in 2007, this design combines the benefits of cluster randomization with a time-stepped implementation strategy. It is particularly useful for evaluating the effectiveness of interventions in real-world healthcare and public health settings.