Challenges in the Use of Administrative Data for Heart Failure Services Research

Administrative data routinely collected when patients interact with the healthcare system are widely used for accountability, quality improvement efforts, and health services research. Although these data were not designed for such purposes, they provide a feasible alternative to fit-for-purpose prospective data collection activities. In the United States, all healthcare transactions are required by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) to use a standard code set to indicate diagnoses and procedures.