 The case study approach is a valuable methodology in exploring complex issues in real life settings, recognized in fields such as business, law, policy, and health services research, but its use in health-related case studies is somewhat less established. This paper discusses the different types of case study design, research questions that can be answered, data sources used, advantages and disadvantages of employing this methodological approach, and provides key pointers and a checklist to aid those designing and appraising proposals for conducting case study research and assessing the quality of case study reports. This article was authored by Hubby Gorrow, Robertson Ann, Cresswell Catherine, and others.