A new clinical data system is being developed to improve data availability and reduce errors. This system streamlines data entry and reporting for clinical research professionals.
Area of Science:
Clinical data management
Biostatistics
Information systems in healthcare
Background:
Traditional clinical data systems often involve significant time lags between patient visits and data availability.
Data entry errors and extensive training requirements are common challenges in clinical data management.
The need for specialized programming and complex data handling hinders efficient clinical research.
Purpose of the Study:
To develop an advanced clinical data system at the Upjohn Company.
To minimize the time lag from patient visit to data availability.
To reduce data entry errors and training requirements for system users.
Main Methods:
System design emphasizes generality for study monitors and biostatisticians.
Incorporates pre-entry data editing and simplified form design.
Allows direct entry of textual responses, reducing the need for coding and special programs.
Utilizes interactive subsystems for study description, program generation, database updates, and ad hoc reporting.
Implementation is based on a database management system on an IBM 370/148 under VM/CMS.
Main Results:
Anticipates a significant reduction in the time lag for data availability.
Aims to decrease data entry errors through enhanced editing capabilities.
Expected to lower the training burden for users of the clinical data system.
Provides flexibility for diverse study needs and user roles.
Conclusions:
The developed clinical data system offers a more efficient and accurate approach to managing clinical trial data.
The system's design promotes user-friendliness and reduces reliance on specialized programming.
Expected to enhance the overall productivity and reliability of clinical research data management.