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Routinely collected data in national and regional databases--an under-used resource
M R Bain1, J W Chalmers, D H Brewster
1Information and Statistics Division, National Health Service in Scotland, Edinburgh.
Journal of Public Health Medicine
|February 19, 1998
Summary
Routinely collected health data from national and regional databases offer valuable insights beyond traditional uses. Careful assessment ensures this health information is fit for purpose in various research applications.
Area of Science:
- Health Informatics
- Data Science
- Public Health Research
Background:
- Large-scale regional and national databases contain extensive health information.
- These datasets often cover entire populations over extended durations.
- Traditional uses include population health assessments and health service planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the utility of routinely collected health data beyond conventional applications.
- To highlight the importance of data quality assessment for research.
- To guide researchers in leveraging diverse health information sources.
Main Methods:
- Identifying relevant routinely collected data sources.
- Evaluating the quality and 'fitness for purpose' of available data.
- Exploring novel applications for population health data.
Main Results:
- Routinely collected data can be effectively utilized for purposes beyond traditional health assessments.
- Adequate data quality assessment is crucial for successful research.
- These datasets offer significant potential for various analytical and research endeavors.
Conclusions:
- Routinely collected health data are a valuable resource for diverse research applications.
- Methodical data assessment ensures the reliability and validity of findings.
- Expanding the use of these data can enhance health research and outcomes.