Facilitating research through comprehensive cardiology clinical research database.

Abstract

Sir, Many hospitals in Pakistan use computer system which stores and retrieves data in multiple ways.1 These systems have several advantages over paper-based medical record systems as it is difficult in paper based systems to retrieve particular information from patient's data is difficult. 2 In computer-based medical record, data organization is far more superior and its back-up can be stored easily on hard drive and DVDs. Even the best paper-based medical record system becomes a hassle when it comes to the research work.That is why we thought to develop a comprehensive computerized Clinical research data base incorporating the features of information system and data analysis software. The main function of this system which has been named as "Cardiology Clinical Research System" is to retrieve patient's data from multiple parameters thus making useful for research purposes. Its back-end data base is developed in SQL which stores and performs data management function while its frontend which is also called userinterface is designed in C-sharp language. After getting the desired results from custom-made query, this data can be analyzed in statistical software SPSS version 16 or higher. In this way we get analyzed reports of clinical data which can be used for research purposes.3 This system remarkably helps in research process as it requires very little time to retrieve data from thousands of patients records on set parameters. Regular back-up provides duplication of records hence reducing the chances of losing data. 4 It also needs less space and provide tight security to its database. Its data analysis components can perform number of statistical tests including descriptive statistics, inferential statistics and regression models which can be used for both dministrative and research purposes. This is relatively new concept in Pakistan in terms of using statistical software with clinical information system which basically provides more security, back-up, improved retrieval performence to its clinical data which then can be utilized in research application. REFERENCES