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Process of and problems in changing a birth defects registry reporting system
C Druschel1, M Sharpe-Stimac, P Cross
1Congenital Malformations Registry, New York State Department of Health, Troy, NY 12180-2216, USA. cmd05@health.state.ny.us
Teratology
|December 18, 2001
Summary
The New York State Congenital Malformations Registry (CMR) was evaluated and is transitioning to a new reporting system using existing hospital discharge data. This aims to streamline processes and reduce hospital burden while maintaining data quality for birth defects surveillance.
Area of Science:
- Public Health Surveillance
- Epidemiology
- Health Informatics
Background:
- Established in 1982, the New York State Congenital Malformations Registry (CMR) aimed to track birth defects.
- Mandatory reporting by hospitals for children under two with diagnosed congenital anomalies was in place.
- Recent evaluations prompted streamlining efforts to reduce hospital reporting burdens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate and streamline the New York State Congenital Malformations Registry (CMR).
- To explore alternative reporting methods to reduce the burden on hospitals.
- To maintain the quality and accuracy of birth defect data.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System (SPARCS) for hospital discharge data as an alternative reporting method.
- Collaborated closely with hospital personnel to implement necessary system modifications.
- Engaged with national software vendors for system-wide changes.
Main Results:
- Identified the need for modifications in the CMR, SPARCS, and hospital systems.
- System modifications proved more complex and global than initially anticipated.
- Close collaboration with hospitals was crucial for understanding and implementing changes.
Conclusions:
- The transition to the modified reporting system is ongoing.
- Further efforts are required to ensure and verify data quality.
- Potential benefits for other birth defect registries may arise from these system modifications.