Finding relevant health data is necessary for researchers, practitioners, policy makers, and consumers (patients and their families). To determine the best source of data, you should consider why you want the data and how you plan to use it.
Keep in mind that data and statistics are not synonymous.
source: https://www.nlm.nih.gov
Statistics are "the science of collecting a large amount of numbers, or data, and using them to tell a story." (National Cancer Institute, NIH)
It is also important to note that data can be open or curated. Open data is available to download freely online and is accessible for anyone to edit, re-process or use. Curated data refers to data that is available via a subscription or payment. Curated data is somewhat more organized and housed within a tool that might allow for users to combine or analyze multiple datasets. You can access curated data through the Baylor libraries.
Finally, we must remember that some data may not be findable because it has never been collected, and some data may not be accessible because the public is not allowed to view it (e.g. data that contains HIPPA information).
Type of data and statistics available in this guide include:
Below is a table with a list of steps to help aid you in your health data finding process. If you're not sure what kind of data you're interested in, or where you might find good data on the topic that you're interested in, try searching MedLinePlus first. MedLinePlus is a user-friendly NLM-run website where you can find information on a vast variety of health topics.
Formulate the question. Be as specific as possible (ask: who, what, when, where, and why?) |
Instead of "What is the average age of people who have heart attacks?" Think, "What is the average age of people who have had heart attacks in McLennan County in the past 5 years?" |
Think about who would most likely collect the data that you're interested in |
|
Identify key concepts and scope, including unit of analysis, frequency, and geographic coverage |
|
Evaluate the results | Did the information you found answer your question? Carefully review methods and notes tied to the statistics and data that you're looking at to determine if the information is reputable. |
Rinse and repeat as needed! |
Table adapted from the Welch Medical Library, John Hopkins University, Health Statistics Libguide licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 2.0 Generic License
Copyright © Baylor® University. All rights reserved.
Report It | Title IX | Mental Health Resources | Anonymous Reporting | Legal Disclosures