Limitations and recommendations for use of secondary data analysis in pediatric research

ABSTRACT

Secondary Data Analysis has helped to expand research within the medical and behavioral health fields by increasing access to previously under researched populations. While the several benefits of secondary data analysis are well documented, several multilevel limitations continue to impact the scope and generalizability of secondary data analysis. The purpose of this paper is to identify limitations of the current common sources of large data sets within healthcare, including electronic medical records (EMRs) and national survey data, including the U.S. Census. Limitations related to collection of demographic data, as well as interpretation of data collected will be discussed. Specific recommendations will be provided to address these limitations, including institutional recommendations, as well as ongoing advocacy efforts to address systemic concerns that impact collection and interpretation of data sets involved in secondary data analysis.

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Funding

The authors reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.