Overview

Topic: Population Health; Epidemiology; Health Services Research; Electronic Health Records
Dataset Type: Population-based dynamic cohort; Longitudinal inpatient and outpatient EHR data
Expertise Required: πŸŽ“πŸŽ“πŸŽ“ (Advanced)
Cost: Free (with approved collaboration)
Dataset Summary

The Marshfield Epidemiologic Study Area (MESA) is a population-based dynamic cohort comprising more than 185,000 residents across 24 ZIP codes in Wisconsin. The dataset integrates comprehensive, longitudinal electronic health record (EHR) data from both inpatient and outpatient settings.

MESA enables population-based epidemiologic and health services research by capturing detailed information on diagnoses, procedures, laboratory results, healthcare utilization, and outcomes over time. The defined geographic catchment area supports accurate incidence and prevalence estimation, making it well-suited for studying long-term conditions and community health patterns.

Caveats
  • Access requires collaboration with Marshfield researchers.
  • Data Use Agreement (DUA) and Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval are required.
  • Geographically limited to participating Wisconsin ZIP codes, which may affect generalizability.
  • Complex EHR data structure requires advanced data management and programming expertise.
Examples of Outcomes Examined
  • Disease incidence and prevalence
  • Long-term and chronic conditions
  • Inherited and genetic diseases
  • Healthcare utilization patterns
  • Farm-related injuries
  • Mortality and long-term outcomes

Back to Dataset Compendium

Topic

Population Health, Quality and Outcomes

Resource Type

Dataset

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