Our Metadata Catalogue describes the data that we have brought together and quality checked. However, we hold further datasets that are available to those willing to take on the responsibility to understand the data’s scope and limitations.
The DataLoch Metadata Catalogue
Our Metadata Catalogue describes all the curated data we host that are available for research, innovation, and service-management projects. We work with clinicians and clinical academics to understand the nuances of the clinical setting and how they impact the data. We capture this background before integrating datasets within our catalogue.
By sharing this detailed overview, we support researchers in understanding the subtleties of the data and enhance their analysis.
About the Data
Beyond our Metadata Catalogue
Within NHS Lothian TrakCare, there is a plethora of data that we have not (yet) completely explored: we only add datasets to our Metadata Catalogue once we have understood them and are able to share this understanding. Often, we prioritise the addition of new datasets to our Metadata Catalogue in response to researcher demand.
Example datasets include:
- Radiology Orders – information about where a radiology referral came from, the type of imaging test requested, and the part of the body to be examined.
- Appointments – covers appointment types, appointment status (attended, did not attend, etc) and specialties related to appointments in NHS Lothian hospitals and community facilities.
- National Early Warning Score (NEWS) – the recording and scoring of physiological information in acutely ill patients, particularly relevant to sepsis.
- 4AT delirium assessment – scores from the 4AT tool used to support the assessment of delirium (a rapid change in mental functioning).
Furthermore, there are other datasets beyond NHS Lothian TrakCare that we also host:
- Heart activity data – an archive of electrocardiogram (ECG) signal data used to diagnose and monitor a range of cardiac conditions from atrial fibrillation through to myocardial infarction (heart attack).
- Scottish Hip Fracture Audit – aims to improve care for patients with hip fractures; data includes length of hospital stays, destination on discharge, and incidence of delirium.
Example uses of data beyond our Metadata Catalogue
We are already enabling several projects that have included data beyond our Metadata Catalogue. These projects are exploring a range of topics such as:
- the quality of services in treating those with thyroid disorders;
- the impacts on patient outcomes and hospital admissions caused by changing a blood test used on those with suspected heart attacks;
- the prolonged use of pain-relief medications following childbirth;
- the development of a prediction tool to support treatment of those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; and
- the treatment and outcomes of patients with chest pain referred to specialist services.
Get in touch
Contact us to better understand our data coverage and explore novel project opportunities:
Connect with Us
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