1. From the results, What would you recommend to Tak Hospital to improve the syphilis surveillance system?
In my opinion, Tak Hospital could significantly improve its syphilis surveillance system by focusing on a few key areas. Firstly, enhancing communication and cooperation between departments. This involves fostering better coordination between the blood bank, STI/HIV clinic, and antenatal care clinic to ensure comprehensive data collection and sharing. Secondly, ensuring accurate and complete diagnosis coding would improve the sensitivity of reporting, leading to more reliable surveillance data. By implementing data audits that involve all relevant units can help maintain data quality and identify areas for improvement. Lastly, investing in training for staff on the use of the surveillance system, which can help the system being used over time, ensure its sustainability.
2. Do you have experience with disease surveillance systems? What are the strengths and weaknesses of that system?
As I am currently in the team that currently developing new Event-based Surveillance (EBS) System, I have observed several strengths and weaknesses of the system. In my opinion, one of the primary strengths is its comprehensive data management capabilities, integrating multiple data points from various health organizations in Thailand like PHO, ODPC, and DDC, which helps centralize event data and reduce redundancy. Also, the system has a user-friendly interface, designed as a responsive web application compatible with mobile devices, making it accessible for users in different locations and roles. Additionally, the system’s real-time notification feature effectively informs relevant stakeholders, such as CEO, SME (Subject Matter Export), and JIT (Joint Investigation Team), about events, facilitating timely interventions and decision-making. The detailed event tracking provided through various modules, including event reporting and management, ensures thorough documentation and follow-up.
However, the system also has some weaknesses. Its extensive functionalities can be overwhelming for new users or those who are not proficient with IT, which requires thorough training to use the system effectively. Furthermore, effective use of the system requires seamless coordination between various departments, which can sometimes be hindered by bureaucratic delays or miscommunications. Overall, while the new EBS system that is currently being developed offers a robust framework for event surveillance, continuous improvements in user training and inter-departmental collaboration are essential to maximize its effectiveness.