Evaluation of data accuracy of Health Information System At the Locality level - Khartoum State ,2011-2012

Abstract

Introduction Health Information System is the system that integrates data collection, processing, reporting and use of the information necessary for improving health services. It’s actually a crucial determinant for health planners to implement and distribute health services in balance equitable way in the society

The overall aim of this study is to investigate the quality of health information system in Khartoum State at different administrative levels during 2011-2012.

METHODOLOGY

The study was a descriptive cross sectional health facility based study, characterized by two stage cluster sample. It was limited to three randomly selected localities namely, Khartoum, Omdurman and Sharg Elneel. The sample size of health centers was 93 health centers. The health centers represented three categories namely: governmental health centers (42), non-governmental organizations centers (46) and only five private centers. Direct Interviews were conducted with (93) medical directors and (93) statistical technicians at the health centers through pre-tested standardized administered questionnaire.

In-depth interviews were carried out with the mangers and statistical technicians at the health team, locality and State Ministry of Health levels. A standard checklist was used to review the statistical monthly reports and the infrastructures of the statistical units at the health centers. The data was analyzed by using SPSS version 11, and chi-square test was used to find correlation. P value < 0.05 is considered significant.

RESULTS

The study revealed that the statistical monthly reports of the year 2010 were not up to the required standard of accuracy. The percentage of statisticians using tally tables at the governmental centers was (21.4%) while in NGOs centers, it was (37%) and (40%) at the private centers. This study showed that there was an evident accuracy of the information of the statistical monthly report of the year 2010, regarding the diseases reported in outpatient clinic of the health centers.