Using administrative data for your research project: 10 Considerations before you begin

With increasing pressure to conduct research during residency training, and given the availability of administrative claims data, pharmacy residents will likely consider using large administrative databases for their research project. With competing time commitments and the short duration of residencies, residents and their preceptors must consider the 10 factors outlined above in order to produce a thoughtful, clinically relevant research project. While this discussion focused on the completion of a residency research project, these topics are also relevant to a broader pharmacy audience. Colleges of pharmacy are increasingly requiring research projects as part of their curriculum, and pharmacy students and practitioners often consider obtaining additional degrees requiring a research component. Both students and practitioners can use the guidance provided herein when planning research projects and investigations to aid in the successful completion of research using administrative claims data.