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Mean Reversion in Randomized Controlled Trials: Implications for Program Targeting and Heterogeneous Treatment Effects

Author

Listed:
  • Marcella Alsan
  • John Cawley
  • Joseph J. Doyle Jr.
  • Nicholas Skelley

Abstract

Eligibility criteria for interventions can induce an Ashenfelter Dip, and subsequent mean-reversion may result in improvement over time even absent the intervention. We investigate these dynamics for a food-as-medicine program to treat diabetes, where eligibility required elevated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). Both treatment and control groups experienced significant improvements in HbA1c, resulting in an estimated null effect. When we predict improvement using baseline characteristics, we find that subjects unlikely to improve on their own appear to benefit from the program. Our findings have implications for program targeting and estimating heterogeneous treatment effects.

Suggested Citation

  • Marcella Alsan & John Cawley & Joseph J. Doyle Jr. & Nicholas Skelley, 2025. "Mean Reversion in Randomized Controlled Trials: Implications for Program Targeting and Heterogeneous Treatment Effects," NBER Working Papers 33369, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:33369
    Note: AG EH PE
    as

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • C9 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments
    • D04 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Microeconomic Policy: Formulation; Implementation; Evaluation
    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior

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