Improving Tribal Nation-Specific Mortality Numerators in the South and Eastern Tribes

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Informatics

Background:

• The United South and Eastern Tribes, Inc. Tribal Epidemiology Center (TEC) has a 13-year history of conducting Tribal Nation-specific mortality surveillance.
• Current data acquisition relies on state-provided coded death records via open, closed, or direct release methods.
• Existing data quality is inconsistent and dependent on the chosen data release method.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement a novel methodology for more accurate identification of Tribal Nation decedents.
• To enhance the robustness of mortality data specific to Tribal Nations.
• To bolster Tribal data sovereignty through improved data management and utilization.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing coded death records obtained from state agencies through various data release mechanisms.
• Matching state death records with Tribal Nation electronic health records.
• Developing and implementing a new data identification and enhancement strategy.

Main Results:

• Data quality currently varies significantly based on the state data release method.
• Challenges exist in accurately identifying all Tribal Nation decedents using existing methods.
• The current system provides a foundation but requires enhancement for greater precision.

Conclusions:

• A new approach is necessary to improve the accuracy and completeness of Tribal Nation mortality data.
• Enhancing data identification methods is crucial for strengthening Tribal data sovereignty.
• The planned methodological improvements aim to provide more reliable information for public health initiatives within Tribal Nations.