Illustrating the relationship between two continuous variables, such as reimbursement and cost, requires a tool that visualizes their correlation or pattern.
Option A (Mean): The mean summarizes data but does not show relationships between variables.
Option B (Standard deviation): Standard deviation measures variability, not relationships.
Option C (Pie chart): Pie charts show proportions, not relationships between two variables.
Option D (Scatter diagram): This is the correct answer. The NAHQ CPHQ study guide states, “A scatter diagram is used to illustrate the relationship between two continuous variables, such as reimbursement and cost, by plotting data points to show correlation or patterns” (Domain 2).
CPHQ Objective Reference: Domain 2: Health Data Analytics, Objective 2.3, “Select appropriate data display tools,” emphasizes scatter diagrams for variable relationships. The NAHQ study guide notes, “Scatter diagrams are ideal for visualizing correlations in financial or clinical data” (Domain 2).
Rationale: A scatter diagram effectively shows the relationship between reimbursement and cost, aligning with CPHQ’s data visualization principles.
[Reference: NAHQ CPHQ Study Guide, Domain 2: Health Data Analytics, Objective 2.3., , , , , ]
