KEYWORDS:
Test Cases; Data Quality; Algorithm
BACKGROUND:
Immunization algorithm test cases can be used to verify the correctness of next-due-date logic. Historically, these test cases are provided in terms of fixed birth and shot dates. As test cases age over time, assessment results and next due date recommendations change; test cases must be rewritten using current dates to retain their usefulness.
OBJECTIVE:
Address the problem of aging test cases. The immunization test case library contains a set of test case templates that do not age; these templates can be used to generate test cases specific to the date on which an algorithm test will be run.
METHOD:
Supports entry of patient demographics, shot histories, shot assessment results by component, next vaccination due dates by vaccine group, disease histories, and temporary and permanent deferrals. Patient ages are stored as offsets from the test date. Shot dates and deferrals are stored as offsets from the patient's age. For ease of entry, previously designed test cases can be entered with fixed dates; a utility converts them to offset dates. The library generates test cases by converting offset dates in the templates to fixed dates appropriate for the date on which an algorithm test will be run.
RESULT:
The immunization test library provides a comprehensive set of algorithm test case templates that can be re-used over time, facilitating regression testing when algorithms are modified.
CONCLUSION:
It is possible to design test cases that overcome the problem of test case aging.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
1.Become familiar with the test library user interface.
2.Understand the use of offset dates in creating test case templates.
3.Review strategies for creating a non-duplicative, powerful test case set.
Handout (.pdf format, 197.0 kb)
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