The NeoData Query & Report Module is very powerful, in that it allows you to create a wide range of queries and reports from very simple to very complex. However, a certain amount of learning is required to use it.

The most important concept is to understand the distinction between queries and reports. A Query, defined by one or more Filters, selects a specified group of patients or admissions from the database and displays them in a simple list which can also be printed. In some cases, this Query Results list may be all you need (for instance, if you just need a list of patient names and IDs for all patients with birthweights below 1001 grams). More often you will want a more customized printout (a Report) which includes specifically defined items of information, either for each patient or admission selected by the Query or as aggregate data for all patients or admissions. Exactly which features in the Query & Report Module you use will depend on the type of query and the details of the report that you create.

The best way to get started is to review the information in the Help document which discusses the Query & Report Module. In the Help Menu, click on Contents, then click on Tools, then click on Queries And Reports. Start by reading the Overview, Queries, and Reports topics, then look over the other topics to at least familiarize yourself with the main concepts.

A good next step is to examine the sample queries that have been installed along with the program. If no sample queries are showing in the Query & Report Module, contact MetaSoft for instructions on loading them into the List Queries list.

As always, don't hesitate contact MetaSoft with any questions you have as you start building your own queries and reports.