SPHN Federated Query System

Training Delivered by: PHI Data Interoperability Team

Date: 19.10.2022,

In this training, we provide practical information and guidance on how to use the SPHN Federated Query System (FQS) for feasibility assessments of research projects.  

For the first time, the SPHN FQS allows researchers to query data from all five Swiss university hospitals using a single tool. Researchers can search harmonized data coded in national and international terminologies and assess whether and where there are patients or patient data that may be relevant to a particular research question. The FQS allows researchers to assess the feasibility of their project by running simple queries against a subset of clinical data from all five hospitals. It also enables the creation and optimization of inclusion and exclusion criteria for study protocols. Queries may include demographic information (age and gender), diagnosis (ICD-10), procedures (CHOP), medication (ATC) and lab test (LOINC) and lab results with units (according to UCUM). Currently, the system includes over 100 Mio data elements from over 500’000 patients, who signed a general consent. The data in FQS is completely anonymized, and hospitals retain full control of their data at all times because queries are performed in a decentralized manner. 

Learning outcomes: 

• Use the FQS, create queries and interpret the results 
• Understand the potential and limitations of the SPHN FQS 

Requirements 

• New users from an eligible institution are asked to register for an account for the SPHN FQS through the BioMedIT portal prior to undertaking the training (find instructions here).