Several factors contribute to data fragmentation, including:
1. Multiple Data Sources: Epidemiological data often come from various sources such as hospitals, clinics, laboratories, and public health departments. These sources may use different data collection methods and formats. 2. Lack of Standardization: Inconsistent data standards and coding systems can lead to fragmented and incompatible datasets. 3. Privacy Concerns: Privacy regulations and concerns can restrict data sharing between organizations, contributing to fragmentation. 4. Technological Barriers: Outdated or incompatible information systems can impede data integration and sharing.
