PS3-04: Cultivating an Environment and Attitudes Where Data Quality Improvement of the Virtual Data Warehouse Can Occur

Abstract

Background and Aims: The Virtual Data Warehouse (VDW) at the Institute for Health Research (IHR) at Kaiser Permanente Colorado (KPCO) is the data source of choice for the IHR analytic team. This research ready data source is important for efficient use of analytic team resources. Our aims are to 1) describe the attitudes, methods and processes that lead to high data quality in the VDW at KPCO, and 2) provide examples of improvement successes.

Methods: The methods used to pursue VDW improvement include the following:

1. we gathered support from all local interested parties and provided avenues for all interested parties to participate in setting VDW file improvement priorities along with the allocation of available resources to support the process;

2. we worked to develop relationships with experts in data content areas throughout KPCO’s clinical delivery system and those overseeing legacy source data systems;

3. we stayed informed of issues concerning the VDW by participating at the national level in committees concerned with VDW development;

4. we encouraged programmer networking at both the local and national levels;

5. we created an environment that encouraged detailed file documentation;

6. we encouraged two way communications between those using data files and those creating data files.

Results: We found that nurturing a collaborative team spirit encouraged 1) the identification of key individuals best suited to improve specific files, 2) realistic estimates of time necessary to complete the improvement tasks, and 3) the freeing of time for those key individuals to perform these tasks. Engaging content experts outside of the IHR allowed for better understanding of legacy data files and allowed for lead time to respond to data system changes. Engaging programmer networks allowed for the development and sharing of best practices. Enhanced VDW file documentation lessened the chance of misinterpretation or misuse of data. Enhanced communication between those creating the VDW files and those using the files assure continued improvement.

Conclusions: Good communication among many different parties and a supportive team spirit from local interested parties are necessary to facilitate the building and maintenance of a high quality research data structure.