Statistical analysis of anonymous databases

[Lucky Green]

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 at netcom.com>
   PGP encrypted mail preferred.