Healthcare Data ChallengesPrepared by Angela Boyd

2017

Problem: Why is there so much data and so little value?

Some of the Challenges Explained:

-Multiple applications are used to create data (for varying purposes with varying levels of quality). Data degrades or changes as it moves throughout the organization.

-Limited meta data may be available/easily understood by those trying to use the data.

-People and projects with data needs often create new data flows because it seems easier than using existing data.

-New data is created ‘in a vacuum’ for one reporting group/project without a view of enterprise needs/synergy with others that also need the data.

Problem: Why are data challenges so hard to fix?

Some of the Challenges Explained:

-Multiple applications are managed separately by differing reporting structures and processes. In many cases, people are not aware their data is used for reporting by other teams that secure a copy of a copy.

-Subject matter experts of data, sometimes referred to as Data Heros, are hidden in the organization, or buried under requests to explain the data. Identifying and accessing these individuals can be difficult.

-It is almost always faster/less expensive (up front) to create data ‘in a vacuum’ for one reporting group/project without a view of enterprise needs/synergy with others that also need the data. It’s later, you realize the costs of multiple groups creating the same/similar data, technical support, data storage, data quality, multiple platforms /licenses, data security risks/compliance audits, etc.

Solution: Tips to Try

• Consider adopting a standardized metric template/business information requirements for reporting/metric catalog

• Collaborate with other reporting teams to find synergy

• Educate/communicate with others/find out what you don’t know and teach what you know

• Ensure that you’re following company data standards and policies

• The Reporting and Analytics Team(s) that are the best collaborators and communicators will grow and be relied upon by organization

• Form close partnerships with your suppliers and consumers