What is the quality control activity called that compares original source documents to coded data?

The quality control activity that involves comparing original source documents to coded data is referred to as a re-abstracting audit. This process is crucial in ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the data that has been entered into a cancer registry. During a re-abstracting audit, trained professionals review the original records, such as patient charts, and check them against the coded data that has been entered into the database. This practice helps identify discrepancies, errors, or omissions in the coding process, thereby ensuring that the data reflects the true clinical picture.

Conducting a re-abstracting audit is an essential part of maintaining high-quality data, as it not only validates the accuracy of the coding process but also provides insight into potential areas for improvement. By regularly performing this type of audit, cancer registries can enhance the reliability of their data, which is critical for patient care, research, and epidemiological studies.