DataLoch: enabling improvements in health and social care

DataLoch is a data service that has been developed by the University of Edinburgh and NHS Lothian to bring together routine data collected as part of people's day-to-day interactions with health and social care services. DataLoch’s focus is on making data research-ready as well as supporting NHS services.

DataLoch works with data in several ways: collaborating with clinicians to improve data quality; linking datasets – across primary and secondary care – to enable broad insights; and maintaining a high-quality metadata catalogue with the support of NHS expertise.

By putting data at the centre of responses to health and care system challenges – through research, innovation, and planning – DataLoch aims to support improvements to frontline services and, ultimately, the outcomes for those accessing them.

Summary of the data hosted by DataLoch

The latest DataLoch enhancements

DataLoch has recently announced a number of new developments.

They have added further specialist datasets – including National Early Warning Score 2 and 4AT delirium questionnaire scores – to expand the opportunities for innovative research. The team is also leading the TransPECT and HEAL-Scot collaborations that will result in new guidance and tools to enhance research possibilities across the UK.

DataLoch has published two new case studies that reveal how PhD researchers have benefitted from the DataLoch service, as well as another that showcases how DataLoch is helping the NHS Lothian Medical Physics team to optimise CT scanners. Finally, a new report delivered by Ipsos captures public perspectives around the possible use of Large Language Models to identify privacy risks in clinical free text.

Learn about the latest DataLoch enhancements

Accessing the DataLoch service

For potential data access, the DataLoch team works with researchers to understand the purpose and technical requirements of their projects. The approvals process involves NHS and public panel members, with every application being carefully scrutinised. After approval, de-identified data extracts are accessed and analysed by researchers within the DataLoch secure data environment.

To find out more or discuss possible project proposals, contact the DataLoch team