Data linkage is a technique for connecting pieces of information that are thought to relate to the same person, family, place or event.
Information is created when a person comes into contact with certain services, for example, when they visit an emergency department, stay in a hospital or register the birth of their child.
If these different bits of information can be connected to a person, in a way that does not breach their privacy, it can all be used to produce evidence for improvements in the health of the WA community.
The Data Linkage Branch has developed and implemented a number of privacy protocols, with organisational, personal, electronic and physical measures in place to ensure that the confidentiality of information provided to them is maintained.
Protecting Privacy: Separation Principle
Privacy is protected by separating the demographic data and clinical data when it is provided for linkage. This practice is known as the separation principle. See Data Linkage WA for more detail.
Researchers only receive clinical or service details from each data custodian and use the encrypted keys to connect the details needed for analysis. They do not receive any demographic information such as names and addresses.
What data has been linked?
Data linked for use in the Developmental Pathways Project
Accessing linked data
The DPP is a resource for other researchers wanting to utilise linked government data.
More information
- The DPP research application process: please contact Rebecca Glauert
- The Data Linkage Branch application process