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Using information technology to improve the public health system
Charles Magruder1, Michael Burke, Neil E Hann
1Public Health Practice Program Office, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Journal of Public Health Management and Practice : JPHMP
|February 16, 2005
Summary
Information technology (IT) is crucial for public health. A national survey highlights local health department IT needs and usage, informing future strategies and resource development for public health informatics.
Area of Science:
- Public Health Informatics
- Health Services Research
- Information Science
Background:
- Information technology (IT) plays a critical role in modern public health systems.
- The Information Technology Collaborative, part of the national Turning Point initiative, focuses on advancing IT in public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the role of IT in public health.
- To present findings from a nationwide survey on local health department IT needs and use.
- To outline future recommendations for IT in public health.
Main Methods:
- Nationwide survey of local health departments regarding IT needs and utilization.
- Investigation of state-level public health IT infrastructure.
- Development of the Information Technology Collaborative's online Public Health Information Systems Catalog.
Main Results:
- Data on current IT needs and usage within local public health departments were collected.
- Information on state-level public health IT was gathered.
- A comprehensive online resource for public health informatics is being developed.
Conclusions:
- IT is a vital component of public health infrastructure.
- Understanding IT needs is essential for strategic development.
- The Public Health Information Systems Catalog will serve as a key resource for the field.