Toward a model for the evaluation of clinical coding systems.
OBJECTIVE
To demonstrate an empirical method to evaluate the utility of clinical coding systems. To use this method to assess the predictive power of two codes.


METHODS
Controlled trial of two coding systems.


METHODS
The Read Clinical Codes, version II and the International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC).


METHODS
The association between codes and pharmaceuticals prescribed.


RESULTS
The power of both codes to predict pharmaceuticals increased with their precision. ICPC performed better than Read at the same level of precision.


CONCLUSIONS
ICPC may be a more efficient coding system to use than Read. Assessment of the predictive power of a code is central to assessing its utility.
Bolton
P
P
Department of General Practice, University of Sydney.
Warren
J
J
D003953:Diagnosis-Related Groups / Q000145:classification*; D011307:Drug Prescriptions / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D005194:Family Practice / Q000145:classification*; D005568:Forms and Records Control / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D016347:Medical Records Systems, Computerized / Q000145:classification*; D008501:Medical Records, Problem-Oriented; D015233:Models, Statistical; D009517:New South Wales; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests