Web-Based Public Health Reporting in California: A Feasibility Study

Publication Date: December 2001

Publisher: California HealthCare Foundation

Author(s): Donna Nowell; Fred E. Warren

Research Area: Health

Type: Report

Coverage: California

Abstract:

This Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory study on the feasibility of developing a Web-based public health reporting system in California was conducted with the cooperation of various branches within the California Department of Health Services (DHS). Its findings and recommendation for a Communicable Disease Surveillance pilot were presented to DHS leadership in March 2001. The findings suggest that an integrated Web-based system could significantly improve business and work-flow management processes, provide appropriate security and data protection, improve the capture of high-quality data, provide greater capabilities for local health departments, and simplify mandated reporting requirements. This report will help local and state health officials, state policymakers, and others explore workable options to improve California's public health infrastructure. Taking a systems approach to public health reporting should be considered, while assessing how to maintain a well-trained public health workforce and sufficient capacity to produce timely and accurate results for diagnosis and investigation.