Experiences From Developing and Upgrading a Web-Based Surveillance System for Malaria Elimination in Cambodia

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Informatics

Background:

• Malaria elimination requires robust surveillance systems.
• Previous information systems faced challenges in Cambodia.
• A web-based system was identified as essential for strengthening surveillance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and upgrading of Cambodia's malaria information system (MIS).
• To highlight critical attributes for an effective MIS in malaria elimination.
• To provide a model for other countries pursuing malaria elimination.

Main Methods:

• Development of a web-based malaria information system (MIS).
• Focus on new functionalities like data visualization and operational attributes like data quality.
• Consideration of feasibility (user acceptability) and sustainability (system flexibility).

Main Results:

• The upgraded MIS incorporates essential functionalities and operational improvements.
• Feasibility and sustainability were prioritized alongside technical aspects.
• Cambodia's experience offers valuable lessons for malaria control programs.

Conclusions:

• An effective malaria information system (MIS) must balance functionality, operationalization, feasibility, and sustainability.
• Country-specific needs are paramount in developing adaptable health information systems.
• Sharing experiences accelerates global malaria elimination efforts.