Introducing a Method for Transformation of Paper-Based Research Data into Concept-Based Representation with openEHR

Area of Science:

• Medical Informatics
• Health Data Management

Background:

• Integrating diverse data sources is crucial for advancing medical research.
• Paper-based research data presents significant challenges for modern data analysis and integration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a method for transforming paper-based research data into a concept-based representation.
• To facilitate the combination of research data with clinical routine data, reducing integration effort.

Main Methods:

• Developed a concept-based representation for paper-based research data.
• Utilized an openEHR-based electronic health record platform for data acquisition and representation.
• Created content models (archetypes and templates) and automatically generated web forms for data entry.
• Implemented double data entry and comparison to minimize transcription errors.

Main Results:

• Successfully represented study data in a clinical concept-based platform.
• Demonstrated reduced integration effort for accessing and processing combined research and clinical data.
• Identified challenges and lessons learned during the transformation process.

Conclusions:

• Adapting routine tools like electronic health record platforms is effective for managing research data.
• The developed method simplifies the integration of disparate research and clinical datasets.
• Concept-based data representation enhances data accessibility and usability in medical research.