i2b2 is a self-service tool that enables researchers to access EHR data in the Cerner system. Dr. James J. Cimino, CCTS CoDirector and Director of the UAB Informatics Institute, is so sure researchers will benefit from learning how to use i2b2, he is running an i2b2 abstract contest. The grand prize for the best abstract is $1000, with two-second place prizes of $500. “But the real prize,” he said “is learning to access clinical data on your own.”

Still need convincing? Take inspiration from these i2b2 factoids:

• i2b2 has data on more than 1 million patients!
• There are 500 million rows of data!
• There are 140 million lab results!
• From measurements to medications, covering diagnosis to discharge, researchers can query 18 i2b2 data types, with more on the way! (see Row Counts by Row Data Type)
• One does not need to be tech-savvy, the i2b2 interface is drag and drop.
• IRB  exemption (for limited data set use) is automatically provided at the time of data download.
• Investigators can use i2b2 for generating hypotheses, estimating cohort size, exploring recruitment potential, and conducting simple data analyses suitable for correlational and retrospective studies.
• i2b2 access is available to all UAB investigators and is available to non-faculty with supervisor approval.
• i2b2 offers researchers a self-service solution to information needs that can be significantly faster than requesting data from Enterprise Data Warehouse analysts.
• CCTS and its partner the Informatics Institute offer several training options, including a hands-on class (see below for date/time/location and links to register), a video series, and a user manual.
• Requesting access is easy, here’s a link to the form:https://i2b2-uab.hs.uab.edu/webclient/uab_i2b2_Helper.php.
• The only prerequisites are: HIPPA and IRB Human Subject Protection training and acknowledgment of restrictions on the use of limited data sets (simple on-line acknowledgment of the data use agreement).

Register now for a December i2b2 training (registration is required):

When: 1:00-3:00 pm
Where: Cudworth Building, Room 305
Thursday, December 7 | Register
Tuesday, December 19 | Register

The i2b2 abstract contest offers a financial incentive for doing something that is already a win-win. Submit a one-page abstract with your findings (no p-value required) and you may win $500-1000—just in time for the holiday bills! Contest details are available online. Questions? Contact Informatics Institute Director Dr. James Cimino at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

To learn more about the different types of data sets that CCTS Informatics enables via i2b2 or, for more complex queries, our Enterprise Data Warehouse analysts, see our Research Data Request page.