The NCIS is committed to providing high quality and fit-for-purpose data.
The NCIS Quality program ensures data conforms to the defined, standardised codeset and provides an accurate reflection of each case. The program encompasses a range of activities including data entry training and support, review of coding and reporting on data quality to maintain the highest possible standards of data quality and consistency.
Quality framework
The NCIS Quality framework provides the foundation for a rigorous quality assurance program.
Supporting data quality
The integrity of the data collection is dependent on the comprehensiveness of information collected during an investigation and the support of the courts to provide coded data and case documentation.
Quality reviews
The NCIS Unit manages and performs processes to regularly monitor, review and report on data quality. Closed cases in the NCIS that meet the eligibility criteria are manually reviewed by the NCIS Unit to verify consistency and alignment with coding standards. Eligible cases are those which have a non-natural case type (or are natural deaths with specific terms in the medical cause of death).
Restricted editing is applied to reviewed cases to protect them from further changes.
Coding structures
The NCIS Unit administers the classification structure to support the NCIS codesets and data quality. The NCIS Data dictionary and database validation rules are managed by the NCIS Unit. Global classifications are monitored to assist with data comparision.
Coding training and support
The NCIS Unit provides training and support to coders in all jurisdictions. The NCIS Coding manual provides extensive guidance in how to code cases for the NCIS. System reporting is provided to all jurisidictions to assist with coding activities.