New “Data Points” Products on the Horizon

A new series of statistical information briefs titled “Data Points” are being produced by the DEcIDE (Developing Evidence to Inform Decisions about Effectiveness) Network. These briefs will focus on existing and emerging diagnosis and treatment modalities. The products will help policymakers and researchers identify research questions and design patient-centered outcomes research.

Data for the series will initially be derived from Medicare administrative data files, which account for approximately 45 million beneficiaries. Over time, it is expected that other sources of data will be used for the Data Points series. The series will contain information such as frequencies and rates of service utilization, mortality and morbidity, hospital readmissions, and other key outcomes for AHRQ priority conditions.

The first Data Points briefs are scheduled for publication in early 2011. The initial topics include diabetic foot ulcers, erythropoietin-stimulating agents, cancer treatment biologics, and utilization of diabetes medication and antihypertensive medications. Publication notices of these briefs are available by joining the Effective Health Care Program E-mail list.