PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Janice Miller
AU  - Frances Gunn
AU  - Malcolm G Dunlop
AU  - Farhat VN Din
AU  - Yasuko Maeda
TI  - Development of a customised data management system for a COVID-19-adapted colorectal cancer pathway
AID  - 10.1136/bmjhci-2020-100307
DP  - 2021 Jul 01
TA  - BMJ Health & Care Informatics
PG  - e100307
VI  - 28
IP  - 1
4099  - http://informatics.bmj.com/content/28/1/e100307.short
4100  - http://informatics.bmj.com/content/28/1/e100307.full
SO  - BMJ Health Care Inform2021 Jul 01; 28
AB  - Objectives A customised data management system was required for a rapidly implemented COVID-19-adapted colorectal cancer pathway in order to mitigate the risks of delayed and missed diagnoses during the pandemic. We assessed its performance and robustness.Methods A system was developed using Microsoft Excel (2007) to retain the spreadsheets’ intuitiveness of direct data entry. Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) was used to construct a user-friendly interface to enhance efficiency of data entry and segregate the data for operational tasks.Results Large data segregation was possible using VBA macros. Data validation and conditional formatting minimised data entry errors. Computation by the COUNT function facilitated live data monitoring.Conclusion It is possible to rapidly implement a makeshift database system with clinicians’ regular input. Large-volume data management using a spreadsheet system is possible with appropriate data definition and VBA-programmed data segregation. The described concept is applicable to any data management system construction requiring speed and flexibility in a resource-limited situation.Data are available upon reasonable request. Availability of data and material: A data cleaned file is available as a reference. Code availability: Available if contacted.