Record-linkage validation plan
==============================

StatMedAnalysis | Original downloadable worksheet | 6 November 2026

Evaluate linkage errors independently of database join mechanics.

How to use this worksheet
Define what a true link means and establish a permissible reference set or review
process. Prespecify matching rules and thresholds. Examine false matches and missed
matches across relevant groups, and keep uncertain links distinct. Record how linkage
uncertainty affects downstream estimates.

Save a working copy and keep the original blank version. Use public, hypothetical or
aggregate information only; do not enter patient identifiers, credentials or confidential
records. Keep source evidence in your approved project workspace. Mark unresolved text
fields UNKNOWN or NOT REPORTED with a reason; never substitute zero for an unknown count.

Project/version __________________  Prepared by role/date __________________

Working fields
1. Entities and true-link definition
Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

2. Permitted identifiers and governance
Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

3. Reference validation sample
Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

4. Matching rule and threshold
Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

5. False-match and missed-match estimates
Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

6. Ambiguous-link disposition
Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

7. Group-specific error patterns
Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

8. Sensitivity analysis for linked cohort
Response/evidence: _________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________

Hypothetical worked case
A fictional linkage algorithm matches records sharing a common surname and birth month.
A high match rate may conceal false matches; validation must examine correctness, not
simply the number linked.

Decision rule and limitations
Do not treat a successful database join or a high linkage percentage as evidence of
accurate entity matching. Preserve uncertainty and assess consequences for the study
population.

Decision _______________________  Remaining uncertainty ____________________
Next action ____________________  Owner / review date ______________________
Independent check and discrepancy resolution _______________________________

Official method or reporting reference checked 6 November 2026
https://ukdataservice.ac.uk/learning-hub/research-data-management/

This is an original planning aid, not an official checklist, validated instrument,
clinical recommendation or certificate of expert approval. Apply the referenced
guidance to the specific design and record any additional requirements.