Beyond the Clinic: How PHARMO GP Data Redefines Complete and Representative Primary Care Evidence in the Netherlands

High-quality real-world data (RWD) are essential in modern pharmacoepidemiology, outcomes research, and safety studies. The PHARMO Data Network comprises of linked electronic health records (EHRs), capturing longitudinal patient journeys across care settings in the Netherlands. A key component of this network is PHARMO general practitioner (GP) data, sourced from routine GP records covering diagnoses, prescriptions, clinical encounters, and more. Because nearly all Dutch residents are registered with a GP under the country’s healthcare system, these data offer a comprehensive view of a representative patient population.

Research challenge

Before deploying RWD for robust research, it can be helpful to clarify considerations of completeness and representativeness. Limitations in capture or representativeness do not necessarily invalidate the evidence, but they can affect precision, interpretation, and potential bias—thus, they should be assessed, transparently reported, and, where possible, addressed via study design or sensitivity analysis.