One section of the Concept Dictionary lists SAS macros.  These macros represent portions of SAS code developed for repeated use.⁹  The macros build on SAS’ data management and analytic capabilities and integrate seamlessly with MCHP’s larger SAS-based system.

The macros can be classified according to their functions.  “Analysis” macros provide agreement statistics, aid in working with individual longitudinal data (e.g. generalized estimating equation) and calculating mortality related outcomes. The “Measures” macros use different data sets to generate measures of comorbidity and of continuity of care for individuals, specify episodes of hospital care and characterize census enumeration areas by wealth and by scores on a Socio-Economic Factor Index (SEFI).

Some of the SAS modules are freestanding.  Others, such as LINKS (record linkage) and RATES (for analyzing population-based information), which will be discussed later, have been designed to fit into larger systems.  Although these tools were developed specifically for researchers analyzing Manitoba data, much of the content can be easily adapted for use with administrative data available elsewhere. These macros are distributed to external users by request.