Data Distribution

Understanding Data and Content in HL7 Messages

The Data Distribution feature displays the data values in a field. For instance, it helps you quickly figure out what codes are used in a specific field or how often a specific code is used.
Data Distribution can also help you analyze how one field can impact other fields in terms of data and content. With Data Distribution, for example, it’s possible to get the list of lab result codes for each lab request codes within a set of sample messages.

All charts and tables can be copied and pasted to Word and Excel.

Task #1: Get Data Distribution of a Field

• In the Messages section, right-click on the field you want to analyze further (in this example, we chose AL1.2 Allergen Type Code ). A menu appears.
• Select Add Data Distribution.
• The selected field is added to the Data Distributions tab.
• A pie chart appears in the Data Distribution Results tab.

The pie chart displays the values that populate the field, as well as how often those values occur in the field.

Task #2: Create a report based on Data Distribution Fields

• In the Messages section, right-click on the field you want to add (in this example, we chose MSH.4 Sending Facility). A menu appears.
• Select Add Data Distribution.
• The selected field is added to the Data Distributions tab.
• Drag the MSH.4 – Sending Facility to the group zone.

The report displays which Allergen Type Code is sent, grouped by Sending Facilities.

• You can save this report by right-clicking the Data Distribution Result grid and selecting Save Report.

Task #3: Analyze the Impact of One Field on Others

• In the Data Distribution Results tab, click on Data Distribution View, then Show All (by default, only the top 10 most frequently used values are listed).

Add Data Distribution Fields from the Message Definition Tree

You can also add data distribution fields from the Message Definition tree:

• Right-click any messages in the Messages area, then click “Message Definition…“.

• Navigate to the field you want to add.
• Right-click the field and select “Add Data Distribution“.

Add a Data Filter from the Data Distribution Table View

From the Data Distribution table view, you can add a Data Filter in order to find messages containing specific data:

1. Add a Data Distribution field.
2. Go to the Data Distribution tab and switch to the “Table View“.
3. Right-click any value you want to search for, and click Add Data Filter.
4. A new Data Filter will be added.