A health information system manages vast amounts of health-related information, originating from various sources. The aim is to better understand the dynamics of a population’s health and to evaluate the performance of a health system. Health information is essential to develop evidence-based policies. It is also an essential tool for health research.
A health information system consists of several elements:
Data sources used for collecting data include, a.o.:
A health information system ensures overall quality, relevance and timeliness of data, and converts it into information, knowledge and evidence for health-related decision-making, or makes it available for researchers.
In order to effectively serve and protect population health, and to respond to health and health system challenges, policies must be underpinned by solid scientific evidence delivered by high-quality research on sound data and reliable information. Health information systems play an important role in ensuring that reliable and timely health information is available for operational and strategic decision-making in and beyond the health sector.
