Health Information Personnel Practice Test

What is meant by ‘data quality’ in health information management?

1. The capacity of a health system to manage large amounts of data

2. The degree to which health data is accurate, complete, and reliable

3. The speed at which data is collected and processed

4. The availability of health data for research purposes

The correct answer is: The degree to which health data is accurate, complete, and reliable

The term ‘data quality’ in health information management is fundamentally about the integrity of the health data utilized within the system. It encompasses various attributes such as accuracy, completeness, reliability, and consistency of the data collected and maintained. High-quality data is essential for making informed decisions in patient care, administrative practices, and research efforts, as it ensures that the information relied upon genuinely reflects the reality of health situations. Accurate data means that records reflect the true status of patients’ health, while completeness refers to having all necessary data points available for a comprehensive understanding. Reliability indicates that the data can be consistently reproduced or verified over time. Consequently, when health information management focuses on data quality, it significantly impacts the overall effectiveness and efficiency of healthcare delivery, enhancing both patient outcomes and operational performance.