Creation and implementation of a prospective pediatric clinical outcomes registry.

Objective: To build a pediatric clinical outcomes registry (COR) using a contemporary information system designed to support research and outcome studies and to improve patient care and quality of life.

Patients And Methods: In response to physician needs, this process was implemented: 1) database needs assessment survey, 2) evaluate existing systems and vendors, 3) pilot test a COR tool, and 4) build a COR. The COR was designed to include patients with the following conditions: scoliosis, neonatal surgery, urologic surgery, cleft palate, pain management, otitis media, and voice and airway problems. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality methodology was followed to create the infrastructure and registry.

Results: The database needs assessment survey was completed by 99 individuals and most respondents wanted to collect more standardized data than currently available in existing systems. Satisfaction with the existing systems was rated low. The COR was created and a pilot test was successful. The COR was implemented and has been functioning for more than 2 years.

Conclusions: By identifying physicians needs, evaluating existing technology and incorporating a multidisciplinary team, the COR was created and implemented to maintain clinical data on a variety of patient diagnoses and outcomes using a single technology platform that enhances potential research collaborations and minimizes redundant data entry and data collection, such as quality of life assessments for the patients.