Best practice for developing integrative Chinese-Western medicine databases using electronic health records (BRIDGE)

<x>Abstract</x> <sec> <title>Objectives:</title> Electronic health records (EHRs) offer valuable real-world data (RWD) for Chinese medicine research. However, significant methodological challenges remain in developing integrative Chinese-Western medicine (ICWM) databases. This study aims to establish a best-practice methodological framework, referred to as BRIDGE, to guide the construction of ICWM databases using EHRs. </sec> <sec> <title>Methods:</title> We developed the methodological framework through a comprehensive process, including systematic literature review, synthesis of empirical experiences, thematic expert discussions, and consultation with an external panel to reach consensus. </sec> <sec> <title>Results:</title> The BRIDGE framework outlines 6 core components for ICWM-EHR database development: Overall design, database architecture, data extraction and linkage, data governance, data verification, and data quality evaluation. Key data elements include variables related to study population, treatment or exposure, outcomes, and confounders. These databases support various research applications, particularly in evaluating the effectiveness and safety of integrative therapies. To demonstrate its practical value, we developed an ICWM-EHR database on women’s reproductive lifespan, encompassing 2,064,482 patients. This database captures women’s health conditions across the life course, from reproductive age to older adulthood. </sec> <sec> <title>Conclusions:</title> The BRIDGE methodological framework provides a standardized approach to building high-quality ICWM-EHR databases. It offers a unique opportunity to strengthen the methodological rigor and real-world relevance of Chinese medicine research in integrated healthcare settings. </sec>