OBJECTIVESTo study methodologies and relevant data-element specifications for basic dataset development in China public health information system construction

METHODSThe goals and scopes were determined through data-viewing analysis, while the function model was developed through information viewing analysis. The components and the structure of the data sets were also identified to distill data elements.

RESULTS50 basic datasets were developed and 1513 data elements were determined in 8 main domains and one public domain in China's public health information system. The 8 domains included Expanded Immunization Program (including 7 Basic Datasets and 326 data elements), Occupational Health and Poisoning (5 Basic Datasets and 158 data elements developed), Laboratory Management (9 Basic Datasets and 118 data elements included), Public Health Emergencies (including 3 Basic Datasets and 47 data elements), Infectious Disease Surveillance (4 Basic Datasets and 177 data elements developed), Non-Chronic Disease Surveillance (3 Basic Datasets and 64 data elements developed), Maternal and Child Health (totally 8 Basic Datasets and 368 data elements developed) and Environment Health (including 4 Basic Datasets and 72 data elements). One common domain consisted of 7 basic datasets and 183 data elements.

CONCLUSIONStandardizing basic datasets in public health information systems is an essential foundation in facilitating information system planning and the effective utilization of resources.