AHRQ is offering a new online training course, the HCUP Sample Design Tutorial, as the first technical course in the HCUP Online Tutorial Series. This module assists users in understanding the sampling strategy of the three HCUP nationwide databases: the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS), the Kids’ Inpatient Database (KID), and the Nationwide Emergency Department Sample (NEDS).

The HCUP Online Tutorial Series provides HCUP data users with information about its data and tools, and training on technical methods for conducting research with HCUP data. The courses are designed to answer technical questions related to HCUP data and programs.

Modules on loading and checking HCUP data and producing national and regional estimates will be released later this year. For new HCUP users, the HCUP Overview Course may be helpful. For more information about the HCUP Online Tutorial Series, please visit the HCUP-US website at http://www.hcup-us.ahrq.gov/tech_assist/tutorials.jsp.