Question

Discuss the differences between structured and unstructured data, provide examples, explain why structured is favored over unstructured in HIT, explain why structured data is not used in EHRs 100% of the time. . TT TT Paragraph : Arial * DOQ T 3(12pt) ' T, E.E.T. 25 T ---

Answer 1

Ans) Structured data is easily searchable by basic algorithms.

Examples include spreadsheets and data from machine sensors.

Unstructured data is more like human language. It doesn't fit nicely into relational databases like SQL, and searching it based on the old algorithms ranges from difficult to completely impossible.

Structured vs Unstructured data:

- Structured data is comprised of clearly defined data types whose pattern makes them easily searchable; while Unstructured data – “everything else” – is comprised of data that is usually not as easily searchable, including formats like audio, video, and social media postings.

- Structured data is favoured as:

Structured data entry (SDE) is a data entry method by interacting with pre-defined forms. Compared with free text data entry, SDE can constrain clinical data entry behavior, improve data quality, readability etc.

- Structured data is not used 100% in EHR:

Arguments for both types of data are strong. Structured data makes finding patient profiles, diagnoses and next steps easier and more efficient while also allowing big data insights to be drawn.

Unstructured data, on the other hand, optimizes personal patient care and if experts can find a way to code or organize the unstructured data, it could lead to big healthcare breakthroughs.