Transform data for reporting

Why use this feature

You can manipulate data in the Axiom database for reporting purposes by using data transformation definitions. These definitions allow you to define how, when, and where to change values in the database using different calculation types with no SQL knowledge necessary. The results of calculations can then be stored in certain Axiom standard and custom fields.

Examples include:

  • Perform calculations on encounter data elements and store the results in Axiom fields.

  • Assign a date, numeric, or text constant to a field.

  • Identify outliers.

  • Perform If-Then-Else comparisons.

  • Create basic formulas using constants as well as standard and custom fields for inputs

How this feature works

What: You manipulate Axiom data by using data transformation definitions. These definitions allow you to define how, when, and where to change values in the database using different calculation types. The results of calculations can then be stored in certain Axiom fields, and then used for reporting.

A data transformation definition is simply a mathematical formula that you configure that describes the data you want to use, how you want to use it, and where you want to store a result. When you create a definition, you choose a type, and Axiom prompts you to "fill in the blanks" by choosing:

  • Calculation variables

  • The table column fields to use in the calculation

  • An operator

  • A constant, if applicable

  • Result variable

  • The table column field in which to store the result

Types of data transformation calculations that you can perform include:

Type Description
Assign Constant Use to store a numeric, text, flag (Boolean), or date constant in an Axiom field. For example, you can store a benchmark or best practices length of stay for hip replacement surgery in an encounter custom field.
Basic Calculation Calculate and store a value from Axiom numeric fields and constants. You may combine and group the fields and constants to form an expression using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division operators.
Concatenate Join Axiom fields and constants. You can use the constant as a delimiter.
Comparison Create If Then Else formulas that compare Axiom fields to each other or to constants, and store a value based on whether the comparison is true or false.
Copy Field Copy the value of one field to another field.

Where: From the Enterprise Decision Support home page, in the Data enhancement and refinement section, click Define data transformations.

NOTE: This feature only displays to those with the Axiom EDS Rules Writer role profile.

Who: Users assigned the EDS Rules Writer role profile.

How: Add a definition by clicking +Add. Edit, copy, or delete a definition by clicking the ellipsis (...) in the Actions column. Configure the definition by naming it and selecting the type of data transformation you want to apply. The definition prompts you with different entry fields, depending on the type of calculation you want to perform. After you are done and activate the definition, you can process it.

TIP: To use this feature, we recommend that you read all of the associated online help topics listed in the "Where to find more information" section below.

Manage the definitions from one page.

Definition configuration is determined by the type of data transformation you want to set up.

Where to find more information

The following topics in the online help have been added or updated with information and instructions for using this feature: