Development of a customised data management system for a COVID-19-adapted colorectal cancer pathway. Issue 1 (9th July 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Miller, Janice; Gunn, Frances; Dunlop, Malcolm G; Din, Farhat VN; Maeda, Yasuko
• Is Part Of: BMJ health & care informatics. Volume 28:Issue 1(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-07-09
• Subjects: COVID-19; Medical informatics -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; Information storage and retrieval systems -- Medical care -- Periodicals; Primary care (Medicine) -- Great Britain -- Data processing -- Periodicals; 362.10285
• DOI: 10.1136/bmjhci-2020-100307
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2632-1009

Abstract

Abstract : Objectives: A customised data management system was required for a rapidly implemented COVID-19-adapted colorectal cancer pathway in order to mitigate the risks of delayed and missed diagnoses during the pandemic. We assessed its performance and robustness. Methods: A system was developed using Microsoft Excel (2007) to retain the spreadsheets' intuitiveness of direct data entry. Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) was used to construct a user-friendly interface to enhance efficiency of data entry and segregate the data for operational tasks. Results: Large data segregation was possible using VBA macros. Data validation and conditional formatting minimised data entry errors. Computation by the COUNT function facilitated live data monitoring. Conclusion: It is possible to rapidly implement a makeshift database system with clinicians' regular input. Large-volume data management using a spreadsheet system is possible with appropriate data definition and VBA-programmed data segregation. The described concept is applicable to any data management system construction requiring speed and flexibility in a resource-limited situation.