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DMS Module Series -- Leveraging the HPU Health Sciences Collection: Data & Statistics

Data & Statistics

Review the video tutorial and information on this page, then complete the CHECKPOINT at the bottom. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask a librarian.

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Health Data Tools and Statistics

Statistics can provide background information and context, as well as help drill down to a target demographic, procedure, product, etc., making them invaluable tools for research. HPU Libraries subscribes to Statista, a collection of statistics and reports on a wide range of topics. We also provide access to materials to facilitate your own data collection, such as PsycTESTS for survey instruments.

If you would like assistance in finding or citing statistics, data, or reports, ask a librarian!


Health Data Tools and Statistics

Data from Academic Research

Study results from primary research articles are an excellent source of data, as the structure of scholarly journal articles ensures the data is accompanied by in-depth explanation and a bibliography of other potential sources to consider. Typically such data will be showcased in the 'Results' section of the research article, and sometimes datasets may be provided in an appendix at the end of an article or dissertation. 

Sample Resources:

Diagnostic Testing Guidelines

Diagnostic testing can provide great assistance to healthcare providers to identify and detect risk factors both seen and unseen and ultimately engage a patient with early treatments. Testing however can in itself pose risks to patients; therefore, understanding the evidence supporting risks, benefits, and costs of prescribing tests is paramount to clinical practice and patient care.

Sample Resource:

Reports on Health Topics

Statistical health sciences data can play an important role in determining a patient's prognosis and treatment. It can also notify health professionals of crucial steps that could lend themselves to prevent potential diseases from taking place. Statistics-based reporting provides evidence via predictive analytical tools thus mitigating risk, reducing economic costs, and improving patient health outcomes.  

Sample Resources:

Health Surveys

Health surveys contain a broad range of health information typically collected via personal household interviews by national and international organizations like the Center for Disease Control, the National Library of Medicine, or the US Agency for International Development. Results are instrumental in tracking health status through data analytics, determining health care access inequities, and progressing toward health objective achievements. 

Sample Resources:

Clinical Trials Data

Clinical trials are developed and facilitated by investigators to observe and test specific interventions with participants who fit research plan or protocol criteria. Interventions can include medical products (drugs or devices), procedures, or environmental or behavior changes. Investigators attempt to answer questions relative to safety and efficacy through outcome measurements as determined by the protocol. 

Sample Resources:

CHECKPOINT: Find and Cite Data from a Credible Source

Using the library's Statista database, use this link to view the collection's industry statistics page:

1. Select the Health, Pharma & Medtech industry option

2. Select a chart / graph from the industry's Trending Facts & Insights.

3. Copy and paste the Harvard style citation (using Statista's cite feature) in the document you will submit for the CHECKLIST for Part 3!