Health status indicators: definitions and national data

Area of Science:

• Public Health Surveillance
• Health Policy Indicators

Background:

• In 1991, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) released 18 health status indicators.
• These indicators were developed to align with Healthy People 2000 objectives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide detailed definitions for each of the 18 health status indicators.
• To recommend national data sources for collecting indicator data.
• To present national baseline data for each indicator.

Main Methods:

• The article builds upon a previous description of a consensus process used for indicator development.
• It involves recommending specific definitions and data sources.
• National baseline data is compiled and presented.

Main Results:

• Detailed definitions for 18 health status indicators are proposed.
• Suitable national data sources are identified for each indicator.
• Baseline data for these indicators at the national level is provided.

Conclusions:

• The recommended definitions, data sources, and baseline data facilitate the consistent use of CDC health status indicators.
• This supports standardized public health monitoring and evaluation efforts.
• The indicators serve as a foundation for tracking progress towards national health objectives.