University establishes health data center

KALAMAZOO—The recent proliferation of electronic medical databases, health registries and other Web-based health data has prompted Western Michigan University to establish the Center for Health Data Research, Analysis and Mapping.

WMU trustees signed off on the center's creation during their July 18 meeting.

Statistical and geospatial analysis of health-related data can be time-consuming and requires expertise to conduct correctly. The new center will fill the gap in data and health-mapping expertise, beginning in southwest Michigan. It will use the expertise of its personnel to create and disseminate a holistic overview of the region's health, as well as to provide state-of-the-art training in health-related spatial analysis and data mapping through student research assistantship opportunities.