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SUMMER 2007 |
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Online Only
I
N F O R M A T I O N T E C H N O L O G Y
Research and
Evaluation Department available to assist physicians
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Lancaster University Photo |
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The Newfoundland and
Labrador Centre for Health Information (NLCHI) places a strong emphasis
on the value of health research and
offers many services of
interest to physicians.
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By NLHCI Staffr |
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The Newfoundland
and Labrador Centre for Health Information (NLCHI) places a
strong emphasis on the value of health research. Its research and
evaluation department staff are trained in applied health and
epidemiological research methods, including both quantitative and
qualitative research techniques. In carrying out research, the
department uses a variety of databases, including national survey
data, the Medical Care Plan (MCP) database, hospital discharge,
births and deaths.
The department offers many services of
interest to physicians. Each year, it responds to about 200 requests for
information. Information sessions for interested organizations are also
conducted. The goal of these sessions is to inform individuals how NLCHI
and, in particular, the research and evaluation department can assist
stakeholders in accessing and using health information in support of
planning, decision-making and evaluation.
Since being established in 1996, the
department has released over 75 health reports. It also publishes
summary reports, known as Fast Facts, throughout the year. A
sample Fast Facts brochure is included in this edition of
Nexus. Any physician who would like copies of future Fast Facts
publications sent to them electronically or hard copy can complete the
fax form located in Nexus or contact
Kayla Collins at 709-752-6000.
The department also carries out
data-linkage projects which link unique patient records from
administrative and clinical databases to create a comprehensive
de-identified research database. Assembling comprehensive health
information about unidentifiable individuals over time allows health
care managers and researchers to describe the progression of disease,
the history of care, and the sequence of episodes that potentially
result in improved health outcomes. Given the growing number of
administrative and clinical databases, and the ongoing changes in the
delivery of care, data linkages expand research opportunities.
The department also continues to develop
its expertise in evaluating the benefits from the implementation of
specific domains of the electronic health record. Don MacDonald,
department director, was recently named the benefits subject matter
expert for Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) by Canada
Health Infoway.
If you are interested in learning more
about the services provided by NLCHI’s research and evaluation
department, please email Kayla
Collins or call her at 709-752-6000.
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