Opportunities and challenges of health management information system in India: a case study of Uttarakhand

Husain, Zakir and Saikia, Nandita and Bora, R.S. (2012): Opportunities and challenges of health management information system in India: a case study of Uttarakhand.

Abstract

The introduction of the National Rural Health Mission has increased the demand for micro-level data on population and health for use in monitoring, planning and programme implementation. This calls for the introduction of a Health Management Information System (HMIS). The launching of a national portal-based HMIS by Government of India in 2008 was a bold and innovative step. However, there are several challenges that must be overcome to develop HMIS as an effective tool for planning and monitoring. In particular, without training and motivating grass-root functionaries to report HMIS data in an accurate, timely manner and monitor its quality, HMIS data cannot be used for health sector planning. The study analyzed HMIS portal data in details in order to evaluate the quality of HMIS in Uttarakhand, a high focus state with a poor HMIS. It also documents challenges to improve HMIS based on a field survey at selected health facilities in the state.

• Item Type: MPRA Paper
• Language: English
• Keywords: Health Management Information System; Health policy; National Rural Health Mission; India
• Subjects: C - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods > C8 - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology ; Computer Programs > C81 - Methodology for Collecting, Estimating, and Organizing Microeconomic Data ; Data Access; I - Health, Education, and Welfare > I1 - Health > I10 - General

References

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Government of India (2008): Service providers’ manual: Understanding Health Management Information Systems – Vol. I (New Delhi: National Rural Health Mission, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare).

Government of India (2011): High level expert group report on universal health coverage in India (New Delhi: Planning Commission).

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