The number of records submitted to both surveillance systems is expected to continue to grow as caseload expands. The Alaska WIC program implemented a new statewide computer system in November 1998. Data quality should improve significantly as a result. Positive change in these health indicators has subsequently been noted. Data have been used to assist in establishing Healthy Alaskans 2000 databases on rates of breastfeeding, low birthweight among low income children, inadequate prenatal weight gain, and overweight among women over age 18.
Data quality exceeds national averages and is improving, but remains problematic.
New data quality tables have been produced by CDC to assist in the identification and resolution of data quality issues both at the state and local level. Data quality should improve with the implementation of the new WIC ADP system and the new data quality tables. A new WIC ADP system will be implemented in the next year. Data collection processes have been affected by rapid caseload expansion, repeated modification of the system and staff turnover in the state office and in the field.