Moving data to action: What to do with preconception health data

Background: Implementing policies and programs that focus on preconception health is an emerging issue for public health agencies. Measuring the impact of investments in these programs and policies requires states to collect and assess data that measure preconception health. During 2007, as a result of a multistate effort supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, preconception health measureable indicators were defined. These 45 Core State Preconception Health Indicators were designed as measures a majority of states can calculate with data already collected. We present practical examples of how state health departments are using preconception health data to inform programmatic and policy decisions. Methods: During 2011, the Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs conducted site visits with state health departments who have previously calculated the core indicators to learn about successes and challenges in calculating indicators and translating data into strategic public health actions. During site visits, we interviewed stakeholders from the maternal and child health programs and Medicaid agencies, as well as partners from community-based organizations. Results: Successes and challenges were unique to each state and dependent on capacity for data calculation, ability to disseminate findings, and relationships among partners. For example, Florida created a data book comprising 35 indicators that compared state with national health data. Florida's data book has been used as a tool for strategic planning within the health department and among community partners. Discussion: Site visits offered examples on how preconception health indicators have affected policy and programmatic actions.