Feasibility study and methodology to create a quality-evaluated database of primary care data.
OBJECTIVE
To build and test a model for the collection of computerised retrospective primary care data from the UK, and to assess its quality for use in medical and pharmaceutical research.


METHODS
Collection and evaluation of sampled retrospective general practice data recording.


METHODS
General practices, using the Vision practice management software in the UK.


METHODS
Quality indicators of completeness of data recording.


RESULTS
Initial audit of 236 practices indicated good recording of prescribing in all practices and a high level of completeness of recording of clinical information in many of the practices.


CONCLUSIONS
In the group of practices studied, levels of recording were generally assessed to be of sufficient quality to enable a database of quality-evaluated, anonymised primary care records to be created.
Bourke
Alison
A
The Health Improvement Network, London, UK. alison.bourke@thin-uk.com
Dattani
Hassy
H
Robinson
Michael
M
D019985:Benchmarking / Q000379:methods*; D016208:Databases, Factual; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009026:Mortality; D009313:National Health Programs / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D011247:Pregnancy; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D019984:Quality Indicators, Health Care; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D006113:United Kingdom
D004364:Pharmaceutical Preparations