One type of health data analysis tool is a geographic information system (GIS). The CDC (n.d.-c) defines GIS as “a collection of science and technology tools used to manage geographic relationships and integrate information. GIS helps us analyze spatially-referenced data and make well-informed decisions based on the association between the data and the geography.”
A system is only as good as the leadership applied to it, however. How might public health administrators best use their leadership skills to manage data and informatics in a strategic way that benefits the organization and its stakeholders and constituents?
For this week’s Discussion, review the Learning Resources. Reflect on the media, especially the piece titled Public Health Informatics regarding how individuals in the Howard County Health Department employed the use of GIS and other health informatics in their daily work.
For your identified public health problem for your Final Project, conduct research using health information systems (HISs) and health information management (HIM). Refer to Table 14.2 in your textbook and the GIS section on the CDC’s website.
Post by Day 3 a brief (2–3 paragraphs) description of specific health or health-related issues at a county level from the data gleaned from one these sites. From a leader’s perspective, how would you apply geographic information systems (GIS) technology in evaluating health issues, such as equity and impact? Then, explain how health informatics technology functions to inform and support the strategic planning process. Be specific and provide examples.
Remember to begin interaction with your colleagues in the Discussion no later than Day 5 and continue engaging through Day 7 by expanding on their suggestions for applications of geographic information systems technology. Provide another angle to a colleague’s use of GIS in conducting health impact assessments and provide your rationale.
