ARDC medical research data integration framework

This is a Consultation Draft of the Australian Research Data Commons (ARDC) Medical Research Data Integration Framework. We welcome high-level feedback on key themes. In this document, the ARDC proposes a framework for the systematic integration and use of data from electronic medical records (EMRs) across Australia for research and analysis. At the core of this proposal is the adoption of the Observational Medical Outcomes Partnership (OMOP) Common Data Model (CDM), an internationally recognised standard that can harmonise health data across different EMR and health care systems. By implementing the OMOP CDM, this framework aims to standardise EMR data, enhance interoperability, and support local, national, and international collaborative research projects. Such a capability would also provide significant internal analytics and business intelligence opportunities for health service providers and policymakers. We also advocate for the establishment of an Australian Health Data to Evidence Network to coordinate the adoption and implementation of the OMOP CDM across Australia, initially focused on EMR data. This document outlines key governance, security and privacy considerations to ensure the framework’s successful integration into existing health data systems to create an enhanced infrastructure for health data research. Learn more about our Data Integration activity, a part of our People Research Data Commons for health and medical research.