VHA Decision Support System (DSS) - Documentation

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Documentation

Production Databases

The DSS production databases are documented for the DSS site teams who construct and maintain them in a series of Technical Extract Guidebooks which address data elements extracted from VA data sources. The DSS Technical Extract Guidebooks are issued as new volumes or supplements as needed. The guidebooks are available on the DSS VA Intranet website.

DSS Site Teams use the Extract User Manual for guidance on production database setup, maintenance, audits, and extract reports. This manual includes technical information about the extraction and transport of VA data into the DSS databases, including the source of each data element and tools for data validation. An Extract Enhancements Manual provides technical information about the enhancements of each extract. Both the Extract User Manual and the Extract Enhancements also are on the DSS VA Intranet website.

Documentation and examples of the reporting capabilities of the production database software can be obtained from local or VISN DSS Site Team members. A directory of site team managers is on the DSS VA Intranet website, under Decision Support Office "Who's Who". In addition, a DSS workshop to describe the DSS production database structure and its use was presented in 2000 by speakers from VIReC, HERC, and the Office of Information Training and Education Office.

NDE SAS Datasets

The VIReC Research User Guide: VHA Decision Support System (DSS) Clinical National Date Extracts (NDES) FY2000-FY2004 , describes the DSS structure, data sources, and some special topics. It also provides variable-level documentation of the Clinical NDEs: Laboratory (LAB), Laboratory Results (LAR), Radiology (RAD), and Pharmacy (PHA).

National Data Extract (NDE) technical information and schedules for data pulls are available from the DSS VA Intranet website. This information as well as descriptions of summary reports from the NDEs is also available on the VSSC website.