In data matching, what does an overlap best describe?

The concept of overlap in data matching primarily pertains to the situation where one entity has different unique identifiers across various databases. This is quite prevalent in data management, especially when dealing with multiple systems that may not have been designed to share or synchronize identity information.

In this context, a single individual, patient, or organization may be represented in more than one database, each using a different unique identifier to track that entity. For instance, a patient might be assigned a hospital ID in one system, while another system (like a billing system) uses a different identifier for the same patient. This variation can lead to challenges in data integration, making it essential for data managers to recognize and reconcile these different identifiers to ensure comprehensive data analysis and reporting.

Understanding this definition of overlap is crucial for effective data governance and accuracy in health information management, as it helps to maintain a high level of data integrity and enables better decision-making based on reliable data.