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. 2009 Oct;44(5 Pt 1):1750-61.
doi: 10.1111/j.1475-6773.2009.00992.x. Epub 2009 Jun 22.

Collecting patient race/ethnicity and primary language data in ambulatory care settings: a case study in methodology

Latha P Palaniappan  1 , Eric C Wong, Jessica J Shin, Maria R Moreno, Regina Otero-Sabogal
Affiliations

Collecting patient race/ethnicity and primary language data in ambulatory care settings: a case study in methodology

Latha P Palaniappan et al. Health Serv Res. 2009 Oct.

Abstract

Objective: To collect patient race/ethnicity and language (r/e/l) in an ambulatory care setting.

Data sources/study setting: The Palo Alto Medical Foundation (PAMF), December 2006-May 2008.

Study design: Three pilot studies: (1) Comparing mail versus telephone versus clinic visit questionnaire distribution; (2) comparing the front desk method (FDM) versus exam room method (ERM) in the clinic visit; and (3) determining resource allocation necessary for data entry.

Data collection/extraction methods: Studies were planned and executed by PAMF's Quality and Planning division.

Principal findings: Collecting r/e/l data during clinic visits elicited the highest response rate. The FDM yielded higher response rate than the ERM. One full-time equivalent is initially necessary for data entry.

Conclusions: Conducting sequential studies can help guide r/e/l collection in a short time frame.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Patient Demographics Questionnaire
Figure 2
Figure 2
Pilot Studies 1 and 2
Figure 3
Figure 3
Resource Allocation Estimate: Estimated Hours/Week Required for Data Entry
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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