Data Quality
The fields collected by the A&E data mart are all national data standards and can be found in the data dictionary.
Validation
In addition to any local data quality checks, the data submitted is subject to a validation procedure. For a list of the validation rules refer to Appendix A of the A&E Data Mart User Guide 
[1.42mb]. As well as ensuring that data for the correct site and time period is submitted, the validation ensures that the data is in the correct format and only contains accepted codes; refer to A&E Codes and Values 
[116kb]. If the submission file does not meet all of the validation rules then the whole file is rejected. The resulting errors are reported back to the submitting site where they must be amended and the file resubmitted. Once the file passes validation it is loaded into the data mart where it is then available for analysis and reporting. ISD works closely with colleagues in the NHS Boards to improve the validation and accuracy of the data and to ensure that the appropriate data standards are understood and applied by all sites.
Data Monitoring
Each month a suite of performance and monitoring reports are produced and sent to the SG. These are reviewed and any unusual or unexpected figures are raised with the NHS Board for confirmation. Before the 4 hour data is published each quarter, the figures are sent to the NHS Boards to confirm their accuracy. If changes are required then they must be explained fully by the NHS Board and the data resubmitted. A log is kept noting any changes that are necessary.
A number of additional quality reports looking at the quality and completeness of data submitted are produced monthly and discussed within out bi-annual meetings with all NHS boards.
Currently under development is a metadata file by ED sites across Scotland which includes some details on the way sites collect their data. Once agreed this will be published on the ISD website.
Support to NHS Boards
We have introduced a series of data quality meetings with NHS Board staff to gain a clearer understanding of how ED data is collected and to help support each Board with the capture and submission of this data to ISD. Our quality reports are incorporated within these meetings; discussing the completeness, timeliness and accuracy of data recorded.
Some Quality improvements following these meetings include:
- Submission of additional data items (already recorded on the ED IT system) to the data mart e.g. Discharge Type, Nature of injury
- Clarification of definitions relating to A&E dataset e.g. Referral Source and thus improved quality of data
- Local 'Data Recording Improvement Sessions' arranged for A&E staff - delivered by ISD (see below)
Following on from the Audit Scotland Review of Emergency Departments in 2010
[2.54mb] a programme of work has begun to deliver A&E data mart training to receptionist staff within NHS Boards. The team deliver a 1-2 hour session with local A&E staff covering data that are used for national purposes e.g. the definitions, why it's collected, what it's used for.
If you would like any more information or have any queries please contact Jane Garrett (email: Jane.Garret@nhs.net)
