A successful registry has several components—a centralized database where all information is stored, multiple locations where data is collected, and clear rules for collecting, sharing and accessing the data. The Rick Hansen Spinal Cord Injury Registry bridges provincial and health region borders to collect data in all major Canadian spinal cord injury trauma and rehabilitation centres. These institutions collect data from participants at all points during their journey through the care continuum, from acute care to community integration.

The entire Registry data flow process is shown in greater detail with the illustration below: