Enhancing evidence based medicine: Twelve tips for conducting register-based research

Abstract

With the increasing use of electronic health records for research, the need for clinicians to understand register-based research will become more important in the future. Based on our expertise we have compiled 12 tips for conducting register-based research. We aim to improve the subject knowledge of medical educators and those intending to critically appraise register-based studies. In addition, we aim to create a practical guide for those considering using register data in their own research. Our tips summarise characteristics of the research process specific to register-based research, from study design and ethical considerations, to validating the register and managing the data.

Keywords

• Register-based research
• Critical appraisal
• Study design