Biomedical Informatics Unit (BMIU): Slim-prim system bridges the gap between laboratory discovery and practice

With current national emphasis on translational research, data exchange systems are needed that bridge basic science and clinical research. To meet this challenge, an electronic system was developed by the Biomedical Informatics Unit (BMIU) of the University of Tennessee Clinical Translation Science Institute (UT CTSI). This integrated data system collects, processes, archives, and distributes basic, clinical, and translational research data. The system provides information via web-based applications in a secure and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA)-compliant manner to facilitate data sharing and analysis across domains. The system is currently in use by a number of studies and has proven to be an effective tool for data collection and processing in clinical studies.