The need for improved health information systems emerged as a priority and received overwhelming support at the Executive Conference on Partnerships and Strategic Alliances held in June, 1996. Deficiencies in data availability, quality, and interrelatedness became apparent during the Partnership for Communit Health assessment process. These same issues were confirmed as problematic among many of the community information sources involved in the project. Although the information presented in the Bergen County Health Status Report is extensive, it is by no means complete. Planning and implementing integrated information systems to collect, analyze and disseminate comprehensive health information is fundamental to building a public health infrastructure in Bergen County.
Integration means unifying multiple information systems into one unique information system.
Categorical funding streams have given rise to program-specific systems that cannot talk to one another. Furthermore, it is costly to maintain separate systems considering the cost of equipment, staff, and training. The collection and analysis of population-based data are also important in ensuring that public health agencies fulfill their mission. Population-based data should be readily accessible, comprehensive and timely. Information collection and integration are complex matters.