IHS - sporedata/researchdesigneR GitHub Wiki

General description

• The Irish Health Survey (IHS) is a comprehensive national survey conducted by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) of Ireland. The IHS aims to gather detailed information on the health status, health care usage, and health determinants of individuals aged 15+ years across Ireland.

• The IHS is conducted every six years, with the most recent data collection occurring over the course of 2014 and 2015 and is part of the broader European Health Interview Survey, ensuring that the data is comparable with other European countries.

• The IHS uses a robust sampling procedure to ensure a representative sample of the population. Initially, a single individual is randomly selected from each household to complete the survey. Participants have the option to complete the questionnaire either on paper or securely online.

• In 2015, the survey successfully gathered responses from 10,323 individuals. The survey results are used by a wide range of stakeholders, including government departments, research centers, universities, and the general public. The data provides valuable insights into public health, informing policy decisions and health initiatives at both national and European levels.

• In terms of methodology, the IHS employs various techniques for grossing and imputation to ensure data accuracy and representativeness. The grossing procedure aligns the sample distribution with independently determined population estimates, while different imputation methods address missing data. The survey also incorporates regional classifications based on the Nomenclature of Territorial Units for Statistics (NUTS), allowing for detailed regional analysis. The IHS results are published in aggregate form to maintain confidentiality and are made available for statistical purposes only.

Benefit and categories

Benefits

Using the Irish Health Survey dataset, researchers can:

• Compare health data internationally.
• Monitor and evaluate public health policies and interventions.
• Analyze the social determinants of health in the Irish population.
• Study the prevalence and trends of health behaviors and conditions.
• Support evidence-based decision-making in healthcare planning and policy.

Categories

The dataset includes the following categories:

• Demographics: Age, gender, socio-economic status, and geographic location.
• Health Status: Self-perceived health, chronic conditions, and disabilities.
• Health Determinants: Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, physical activity, and diet.
• Health Services Utilization: Access to and use of healthcare services, including general practitioners, specialists, hospital admissions, and preventative care.

Limitations

1. Self-reported data may be prone to recall bias and social desirability bias.
2. Variations in survey methodology over time can impact the comparability of data.

Related publications

• Estimates for Numbers of Family Carers in Ireland
• The prevalence of self-reported hearing loss in Ireland. The prevalence of self-reported hearing loss in Munster
• Trends in Family Caring in Ireland in 2017: Review of Awareness, Self-Identification, Official Surveys and Income Supports

Data access

Data access is restricted and requires approval. Researchers can request access through the Central Statistics Office (CSO) platform Irish Health Survey Data Access