Results
Describing the various networks. Table 1 summarizes key
aspects of each network, including the number of individuals covered and
the types of data partners included, the format of the data, the main
users that can query the data partners, how analyses are generally
conducted, and how the results of the analyses are compiled and
combined.
Each network was designed to facilitate rigorous and reproducible public
health research. Sentinel and CNODES were specifically created to help
government agencies answer questions about drug safety and
effectiveness, while PCORnet was created as a resource for a wider
variety of stakeholders, including those interested in conducting
pragmatic trials (i.e. randomized controlled trials including patients
and conditions more in line with ordinary clinical practice than typical
in randomized controlled trials).27 All three include
a wide array of data partners providing claims and electronic health
record data and each network has developed or implemented its own common
data model (i.e., standardized way to store data to prepare for
analysis).28 Sentinel has pursued the most
standardized analytic approach, with almost every project using
customizable and reusable SAS code created entirely within the
operations center.29 The CNODES coordinating center
prepares a high-level protocol and analysis plan implemented with code
at each data partner for most projects, but also uses the Sentinel
common data model. PCORnet allows even more flexibility with the
potential for analyses to be performed centrally. Finally, the networks
all allow for variation in the extent to which results are aggregated,
with PCORnet once more allowing the most flexibility.