Data Request Project Prioritization

Health Data Compass has strived to provide custom data extraction services for free to employees of Compass's partners. However as our research portfolio has grown across the campus, we are increasingly expected to perform highly complex, near-real-time data extractions. This is a nontrivial effort even for our highly skilled data delivery team. Please note Compass will start charging a fee for service in 2023. At this time we will also be launching an expanded suite of self-service tools to allow free cohort discovery and data export of de-identified datasets. These new services are staffed by our experienced Supported Self-Service Team. 

We are also offering an expanded project triage service, closer links and communication to statistical services, and a broader range of data offerings. Our team will continue to work with you through every step of the data extraction and delivery process.

How Custom Data Request Projects are Prioritized

Because our services are in high demand, Compass follows a careful intake and prioritization process, approved by the Compass Steering Committee. In general, Compass follows a “first in, first out” approach to prioritizing requests for data. However, to allow Compass to optimize its limited resources, those priorities may be adjusted at intake and over time according to the following guidelines:

1) Timeliness: Are there deadlines affecting...

2) Readiness: Does the data requestor have...

3) Simplicity: Focused hypothesis-driven data requests will be prioritized over more complex, large requests.

Can My Data Request Be Accelerated?

Health Data Compass provides two means by which data requests can be accelerated for funded projects or departments.

1) Fund an hourly consultant for a specific data request

Compass has a “bench contract” in place with a consulting company that provides highly skilled clinical data analysts and developers. We can assign your project to one of these consultants at an hourly rate, and bill a speed type for actual hours worked, subject to a previously agreed-upon maximum. 

2) Fund a full-time analyst/developer on the Compass team for ongoing needs

Investigators, projects, or departments with ongoing needs for custom data extraction services can fund an internal Compass employee dedicated to their projects, at FTE salary + benefits rates. Under this model, the individual is a full member of the Compass team but can receive daily instruction and duties from a member of the funding department/clinic/group. This is a highly collaborative process and the funding department is expected to participate in the hiring process and help to manage their analyst/developer's priorities. 

For more information on either of these options, contact us.