---
title: >-
  Controlling for Differential Regression-To-The-Mean via Propensity Scores: A
  Simulation Study
description: >-
  Explore this publication on real-world evidence: Controlling for Differential
  Regression-To-The-Mean via Propensity Scores: A Simulation Study..
date: '2023-01-01'
author: M. Alan Brookhart, PhD, Feng Yu, Chase D. Latour
category: Publications
tags:
  - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
  - Abstract/Manuscript
  - Clinical Epidemiology
  - Approval & Commercialization
  - 'Yes'
  - Health System Partner
  - Methods/Pharmacoepi
  - R&D
canonical_url: >-
  https://www.headwaterscience.com/resources/publications/acad-university-of-north-carolina-at-chapel-hill/controlling-for-differential-regression-to-the-mean-via/
source: Headwater Science
license: © 2026 Headwater Science. All rights reserved.
slug: controlling-for-differential-regression-to-the-mean-via
id: 2Pno72DD4FnqH7aC565T3c
contentType: article
---

## Challenge

Regression-to-the-mean is a well-known source of bias in before-after treatment comparisons, but whether propensity score methods can effectively control for differential RTM when groups differ in baseline risk had not been rigorously evaluated through simulation.

## Solution

Target RWE researchers conducted a simulation study examining the performance of propensity score methods in controlling for differential regression-to-the-mean, characterizing scenarios where standard PS adjustment succeeds or fails to remove this form of bias.

## Impact

Establishing the conditions under which propensity scores can and cannot control for RTM bias directly informs the design of safer comparative analyses at Target RWE, reducing the risk of biased estimates in studies comparing treatment groups with different baseline risk profiles.

## Use Cases / Links

Propensity score bias control simulation for regression-to-the-mean in comparative effectiveness design, Methodological evidence for RWE study design best practices in pharma partner programs