Informed decisions are essential for successful health initiatives, but how can you assess the quality of the information you report or receive? In Bolivia a participatory, quantitative methodology to measure the quality of service statistics during field visits to rural health clinics has been developed. Initially, the methodology can provide a baseline assessment. Subsequently, it can be used as a monitoring tool for improving data quality in the health care system. The participatory methodology involves service delivery personnel and supervisors in the review of primary data sources (i.e., vaccination cards and clinical histories) and a cross check with monthly reports. The process yields quantitative measures of percentage of error between the clinic records and monthly reports. Involving clinic staff and supervisors in this review process enables them to identify problem areas within their own information system and develop practical solutions. The methodology also serves to highlight the importance of maintaining user-friendly information systems and obtaining correct data for analysis by service delivery and administrative staff. The methodology will be discussed in detail and suggestions will be made for its application in diverse settings.
Learning Objectives: 1. Recognize problem areas for health information in developing countries 2. Recognize the importance of improving data quality at the local level of a health system 3. Acquire the knowledge to apply a participatory, quantitative data quality methodology in a health care system
Keywords: Health Information, Quality
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Management Sciences for Health
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: employment