The science of clinical quality registries.

Clinical quality registries can be a transformational tool to improve healthcare delivery. Clinical registries with an incorporated quality emphasis identify evidence-practice gaps, inform quality improvement, and provide foundational research data to examine and improve health-related outcomes. For registries to create an impact it is essential that clinicians and researchers understand historical context, importance, advantages, and key criticisms. This methodological paper highlights the skills and capabilities required to build and maintain a robust clinical quality registry. This includes key measures to ensure data security, quality control, ongoing operational components, and benchmarking of care outcomes.