Then, once we assess both what the supply looks like and where demand is going to be, we would like to issue a set of policy recommendations. So from my vantage point, an allied health data set should contain key indicators in terms of supply for race, ethnicity, and gender. There is really a dearth of that type of data, particularly on the state level. Another important piece for this project, particularly when assessing demand, is the changing employment settings of allied health professionals, from hospital-based to ambulatory care. That is going to be a key indicator in terms of thinking of what we need to produce for the future.
Wage rates are also very important.
Distribution data are needed as well. Ideally, data should be updated annually. Data that is 5 years old isn't that helpful when the health care system is being revolutionized overnight. Finally, the data should be easily accessible. My last point is standardization of data.