System and Method for Shifting Dates in the De-Identification of Datasets

摘要

A system and method of performing date shifting with randomized intervals for the de-identification of a dataset from a source database containing information identifiable to individuals is provided. The de-identified dataset is retrieved comprising a plurality of entries or records containing personal identifying information. Date quasi-identifiers in the dataset for the entries can be identified within the data set which may be used potentially identifiable for a patient. Date events are consolidated in the date quasi-identifiers and connected dates in the dataset. The date events are moved relative to an anchor date in a longitudinal sequence of the date events. De-identification of the entries in the dataset including the date quasi-identifiers is performed to meet a risk metric defining risk of re-identified patients associated with the records.

主权项

1. A method of dataset de-identification, the method comprising:
retrieving a dataset having a plurality of entries containing personal identifying information; identifying date quasi-identifiers in the dataset for each of the plurality of entries; performing consolidation of a plurality of date events in the date quasi-identifiers and connected dates in the dataset; performing de-identification of the plurality of entries in the dataset including the date quasi-identifiers; performing risk analysis of the de-identified dataset to determine a risk metric; and iteratively performing de-identification of the date quasi-identifiers until a defined risk threshold is met relative to the determined risk metric; and storing the de-identification dataset.