Data-driven insights for the health sector

The health sector faces increasing demands for quality, efficient use of resources, and documented treatment outcomes. At the same time, digitalisation provides access to large volumes of health data. At NR, we analyse these data to generate knowledge that can improve treatment, reduce risk, and support better decision-making — from clinical practice to the planning and management of healthcare services.

Norway is one of the most digitalised countries in the world, and the health services continuously collect more and better data. This provides a strong foundation for analysis, quality improvement, and population health monitoring.

Large volumes of health data make it possible to address complex questions related to public health, including treatment effects, medication use, disease progression, and long-term outcomes. This gives authorities and expert communities a stronger basis for assessing risks and treatment effects, identifying vulnerable patient groups, and adjusting guidelines and follow-up. As a result, measures can be better targeted and resources used more efficiently.

Health registry research

We have long-standing experience in health registry research, carried out in close collaboration with clinicians, pharmacologists, and psychologists.

Our work includes studies on the use of benzodiazepines and Z-hypnotics (BZD), treatment and survival among patients with Parkinson’s disease, cardiovascular risk in breast cancer patients, bleeding risk in patients with atrial fibrillation, as well as patterns in antipsychotic prescriptions and their association with cholesterol levels.

This work combines advanced statistical analysis with interdisciplinary collaboration and contributes to a better understanding of how medications and treatment choices affect patients in practice.

Mapping patient harm in Norwegian hospitals

NR conducts statistical analyses of the annual national review of patient harm in specialist healthcare services. The work is carried out in collaboration with the Norwegian Directorate of Health and is based on the Global Trigger Tool (GTT) method.

The analyses provide national estimates of the extent of patient harm and form an important basis for quality improvement and patient safety efforts. The collaboration has been ongoing since 2012 and contributes to systematic learning and targeted measures to reduce injuries and unnecessary costs.

Analysis of infectious diseases

We develop statistical models to describe the spread of infectious diseases in large populations. These analyses support the understanding and prediction of outbreaks such as seasonal influenza and other respiratory infections, and provide a basis for planning and prioritisation in the health services.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, NR contributed with transmission analyses and scenarios for hospital capacity in collaboration with the Norwegian Institute of Public Health and Telenor.

Anonymisation of sensitive data

Health data contain sensitive information and must be handled securely and responsibly. At the same time, they are an important resource for research and development.

We develop methods that enable data to be analysed without identifying individuals. This includes techniques for pseudonymisation and data adaptation, allowing data to be used while preserving privacy.

Get in touch to learn more about our work in the health sector.