Two of the more complex macros developed by MCHP are LINKS and RATES.

LINKS consists of a series of three modules to perform data management and record linkage functions on SAS datasets.  The programs can be used for record linkage on any mainframe, workstation, or microcomputer which has the SAS system installed.

LINKS can be used for both deterministic (identifiers must agree on both files) and probabilistic (the degree of aggreement on a given identifier determines if a linkage will occur) matching. It allows the user to bring together information pertaining to one individual from multiple datafiles, thereby creating one ‘large’ record for that person. For example, vital statistics information can be combined with health service use and education or social services data to provide more complete profiles of the study population as per the research project’s focus.