Re: Statistical analysis of anonymous databases
At 15:53 5/31/96, David Wagner wrote:
How about a simple non-technical solution? Each patient picks a random pseudonym; the database is keyed off that pseudonym, and the person's True Name(tm) never appears in the database. Patients should remember their pseudonym (or write it down); then they can add information to the database.
In medical research, third party audit, i.e., the Department of Health and Human Services, is often required. A simple pseudonym picked by the patient won't do. Disclaimer: My opinions are my own, not those of my employer. -- Lucky Green <mailto:shamrock@netcom.com> PGP encrypted mail preferred.
In medical research, third party audit, i.e., the Department of Health and Human Services, is often required. A simple pseudonym picked by the patient won't do.
It's not clear to me that the second sentence follows from the first. All the time, in medical or official identification situations (clearances, weapons permits, etc) I'm asked how tall I am. I can't remember ever being measured. Thus, the answer I give about my height, might as well be "made up" by me. I guess they do have to bother measuring homocide victims - they can't talk......
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