GIS as a tool for monitoring Health Management Information System  B. Suresh MIS Coordinator, DANIDA/DANLEP, Chennai b.suresh@mail.com Abstract The purpose of this paper is to provide a set of guidelines by which health information system can be refocused using GIS as a monitoring tool to improve the timeliness, quality, access and use of Health Management information. This exercise also shows that an alternative way of improving the flow of Health management information is to dedicate resources specifically to co-ordinate access, use and ongoing development of relevant information. Introduction Spatial analysis and mapping in epidemiology have a long history but until recently, their use in public health has been limited. However, recent advances in GIS and mapping technologies and increased awareness have created new opportunities for public health administrators to enhance their planning, analysis and monitoring capabilities. In the context, the reliable and timely information can be used to:
Doers are GIS specialists involved in GIS creation and maintenance. Users are decision makers, planners who are interested in analysing the GIS data that have been created. For instance, Executives will need summary information on the achievement of aims and objectives, the costs and the efficiency of services. Mid-level Managers will want information relating to performance indicators, activity levels, resource used and relative effectiveness of care on treatment. Clinicians will need information to assist with the management of individual patients and compare treatment outcomes. Public Health staff will need information to assist with the management of individual patients and the delivery of public health services.
Viewers are interested in the final viewing of the GIS analysis results. For instance, epidemiologists need information on disease patterns while top level programme managers require specific details on health care on administrative programmes.
Page 1 of 2
| Next | |
