J Educ Eval Health Prof.  2013;10:12.

The retrospective chart review: important methodological considerations

Affiliations
  • 1Office of Educational Development, Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, Tulsa, OK, USA. matt.vassar@okstate.edu

Abstract

In this paper, we review and discuss ten common methodological mistakes found in retrospective chart reviews. The retrospective chart review is a widely applicable research methodology that can be used by healthcare disciplines as a means to direct subsequent prospective investigations. In many cases in this review, we have also provided suggestions or accessible resources that researchers can apply as a "best practices" guide when planning, conducting, or reviewing this investigative method.

Keyword

Best practices; Chart review; Medical record; Methodology; Retrospective review

MeSH Terms

Delivery of Health Care
Medical Records
Practice Guidelines as Topic
Research Design
Retrospective Studies*

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