Sources of data
How can I investigate general practice systems?
Local investigation of primary care data may reveal more information. Project sites have found value in interrogating the information held within primary care systems. The importance of accurate coding has been emphasised by project sites, sites have learned more about the exacerbations of their patients by ensuring coding is correct.
Primary care data can be explored using the reporting functions built into primary care systems, or using external tools, examples of which include the POINTS audit tool from GSK, and the Optimum Patient Care Project
Access to practice information is essential for projects involved in End of Life care work, it is estimated that 14% of EOL registers may be COPD patients. Ensuring that this information is accessible, coded well, and used will support the EOL care pathway.
The NHS information centre is planning to improve access to GP information through the development of a national GP data extraction service. For further information visit the information centre website
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