Data mapping

1. Method of matching one set of data elements or individual code values to the nearest equivalents in another set. Also known as crosswalk . 2. Systematized Nomenclature of Human and Veterinary Medicine (SNOMED International), Volumes I through IV are used to compare terminology context or classification description principles with the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-9-CM) system. This process of linking content from one terminology or classification scheme to another is called mapping . Also see crosswalk and crosswalking .

Data mart

Organized, well-planned, and searchable database system for a business department within an organization that draws information from a data warehouse (clinical data repository) to meet certain needs of users.

Data Protection Act 1998

Prevents unauthorised or inappropriate use of ‘personal data’ held electronically or manually. Individuals (‘data subjects’) are allowed access to information held about them and given redress if the Act is contravened. Organisations (‘data controllers’), unless exempt, must notify the Information Commissioner of the data held and how it is used. They must follow eight data protection principles. Certain breaches amount to criminal offences and in some instances data subjects have the right to damages. Insurresponses arise under public liability, legal expenses, directors’ and officers, and professional indemnity policies (www.dataprotection.gov.uk). ance