Since January 1, 1983 a total of 250,000 patient records have been stored in computer-compatible form in the data base of the Working Group of Swiss Gynecologic Clinics (59 gynecologic-obstetric departments). The information resulting from this mass of data is commented on and analyzed in concise form. Problems of quality control, health care and status-related policies can be addressed and resolved on the basis of up-to-date data which are always available. In the authors' experience, the benefit of correctly compiled statistics is indisputable.