Does reporting of coronary artery bypass grafting from administrative databases accurately reflect actual clinical outcomes?
The accuracy of reporting of coronary artery bypass grafting from administrative databases is difficult to determine, as research has produced mixed results. For example, studies such as Shahian et al. (2007) have found that there is a discrepancy between clinical and administrative data sources for hospital coronary artery bypass graft surgery report cards. On the other hand, Grover et al. (1993, 1994, 1996) found that the Veterans Affairs database was an effective tool for assessing the outcomes of coronary artery bypass graft surgery. O'Connor et al. (1991, 1992) found that there was a correlation between in-hospital mortality and coronary artery bypass graft surgery, while Hannan et al. (1990, 1994) found that the Cardiac Surgery Reporting System in New York State was accurate. Ultimately, further research is needed to accurately assess the accuracy of reporting of coronary artery bypass grafting from administrative databases. 