Using primary care data for research: What are the issues and potential solutions?

Background: Interest in using primary care data for research is growing with increasing recognition of its potential for improving healthcare. Many issues exist, some inherent in the data and others external.

Objective: This paper explores the main issues associated with the use of primary care data for research and proposed solutions to address them.

Discussion: Issues related to the use of primary care data for research are complex. Government reimbursement system administrative data have limitations as they lack clinical detail. General practice electronic medical record data are more suitable; however, challenges include variable data quality and interoperability. There are concerns from general practices and the public about data access and use. Strategies to address these issues include incorporating best-practice principles, implementing standards and data quality frameworks, creating partnerships between data custodians and ensuring robust governance systems exist. Leadership and the will of key stakeholders to reform, with governmental support in implementing required actions, must be prioritised.