Data Storage and Access Management

Abstract

One of the most basic challenges arising from the increasing use of electronic data in both clinical practice and research lies in the design and implementation of storage solutions capable of accommodating modern demands. Complex organizational structures, which often cross clinical care and basic research, the often sensitive nature of data, and the ever growing volume of both structured or annotated and unstructured data all motivate innovations, e.g., in identity management, audit trails, monitoring and security, and permissions management. Clinical, translational, and health services research generate very large amounts of data and take place within a complex regulatory environment. Data management, including long-term preservation of value, requires careful attention to security, ease of use and access, transparency, and compliance with numerous state and federal laws. It also demands close collaboration and mutual trust between of the IT group responsible for support of research and the IT group responsible for support of clinical care and business operations in a complex research intensive medical center.