1. From the results, what would you recommend to Tak Hospital to improve the syphilis surveillance system?
= In addition to the suggestions already mentioned, I would like to highlight the importance of conducting regular data audits. Surveillance systems often encounter missing or incomplete data issues, leading to low sensitivity and suboptimal evaluations. Implementing regular audits can address these issues by verifying data accuracy, identifying incomplete records, and uncovering root causes. Furthermore, audits can enhance the consistency of data collection by following established protocols.
2. Do you have experience with disease surveillance systems? What are the strengths and weaknesses of that system?
= I had the experience of collecting data for a retrospective study of cirrhosis patients (1,000 participants) to investigate the causes of the disease, with data collected over a five-year duration. The strengths and weaknesses of this study are as follows:
Strengths:
– Case Record Forms: These forms minimized the risk of incomplete data and ensured consistency in all data entries for later analysis.
– Larger Sample Size: The large sample size increased the potential to detect significant variables and draw more reliable conclusions.
Weaknesses:
– Laboratory and Procedure Orders: There were instances when doctors needed to request blood samples and ultrasound results during clinic hours. Sometimes, doctors forget to order these, leading to the exclusion of participants from the study due to incomplete data.
– Single Center: The study was conducted at a single hospital. Although the sample size was 1,000, the results may not represent the general population from other areas, where different environmental factors could influence the incidence of the disease.