What type of registries primarily focus on past patient data and outcomes?

Retrospective registries are designed to collect and analyze data from patients who have already been diagnosed and treated. These registries focus on historical data, gathering information on past patient experiences, treatment outcomes, and follow-up results. By examining data collected over time, retrospective registries allow researchers and healthcare providers to understand the long-term effects of various treatment modalities and disease progression, providing valuable insights into patient care and outcomes.

Concurrent registries, in contrast, track patients as they are currently undergoing treatment, which means they prioritize real-time data collection rather than historical information. Cross-sectional registries provide a snapshot of data at a single point in time, making them less suitable for evaluating past patient outcomes based on a comprehensive historical perspective. Quality improvement registries aim to enhance patient care by analyzing data for ongoing treatment and processes, rather than focusing solely on past outcomes. Thus, the emphasis on historical patient data distinguishes retrospective registries from other types of registries.