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GIS: A tool for monitoring and management of epidemics
Extrapolation:
GIS provides a range of extrapolation techniques. For example, vector distribution in inaccessible and unsampled areas can be mapped using GIS.
Web GIS:
One of the recent advancements in GIS technology is web-based GIS. Health data is stored in a central server which can be accessed from various terminals connected to the server through internet or intranet. Statistical and epidemiological methods need to be developed to protect individual confidentiality while accessing data (Richards et al., 1999). Internet based GIS technology eliminates the traditional method of flow of information, and the information is instantly available across the globe. Dynamic maps published on the web allow patients to locate the most convenient services to their home or work easily.
Applications of GIS in Health
GIS is being used by public health administrators and professionals, including policy makers, statisticians, epidemiologists, regional and district medical officers (Weekly Epidemiological Record, 1999). Some of its applications in public health are mentioned below:
- Find out geographical distribution and variation of diseases
- Analyse spatial and temporal trends
- Identify gaps in immunisations
- Map populations at risk and stratify risk factors
- Document health care needs of a community and assess resource allocations
- Forecast epidemics
- Plan and target interventions
- Monitor diseases and interventions over time
- Manage patient care environments, materials, supplies and human resources
- Monitor the utilisation of health centres
- Route health workers, equipments and supplies to service locations
- Publish health information using maps on the Internet
- Locate the nearest
health facility.
Conclusions
GIS aids in faster and better health mapping and analysis than the conventional methods. It gives health professionals quick and easy access to large volumes of data. It provides a variety of dynamic analysis tools and display techniques for monitoring and management of epidemics. GIS has a vital role to play in the future. The possibilities that can be explored are limitless, depending on the skill and imaginative use of the researchers and the willingness of health sector management to resource its implementation. Health administrators, professionals and researchers need training and user support in GIS technology, data and epidemiological methods in order to use GIS properly and effectively.
Reference
- Balaji, L.N., 2000, GIS in health. GIS@development, IV(6): 17-20
- Colledge, M., H. Maxwell, R. Parker & D.J. Morse, 1996, Geographic information systems (GIS) in general practice: a new tool for needs assessment. J. Informatics in Primary Care: 7-11
- ESRI White Paper, 1999, Enterprise GIS in health and social service agencies.
- Richards, T.B., C.M. Croner, G. Rushton, C.K. Brown & L. Fowler, 1999, Geographic information systems and public health: mapping the future. Public Health Reports, 114: 359:373
- Srivastava, A. & B.N. Nagpal, 2000, Mapping malaria. GIS@development, IV(6): 28-31
- Weekly Epidemiological
Record, 1999, Geographical information systems
(GIS): mapping for epidemiological surveillance.
74(34): 281-285, WHO: Geneva
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