Development of a unified web-based national HIV/AIDS information system in China.
BACKGROUND
In the past, many data collection systems were in operation for different HIV/AIDS projects in China. We describe the creation of a unified, web-based national HIV/AIDS information system designed to streamline data collection and facilitate data use.


METHODS
Integration of separate HIV/AIDS data systems was carried out in three phases. Phase 1, from January 2006 to December 2007, involved creating a set of unified data collection forms that took into account existing program needs and the reporting requirements of various international organizations. Phase 2, from January to October 2007, involved creating a web-based platform to host the integrated HIV/AIDS data collection system. Phase 3, from November to December 2007, involved pilot testing the new, integrated system prior to nationwide application.


RESULTS
Eight web-based data collection subsystems based on one platform began operation on 1 January 2008. These eight subsystems cover: (i) HIV/AIDS case reporting; (ii) HIV testing and counselling; (iii) antiretroviral treatment (ART) for adults; (iv) ART for children; (v) behavioural interventions for high-risk groups; (vi) methadone maintenance treatment; (vii) sentinel and behavioural surveillance; and (viii) local county background information. The system provides real-time data to monitor HIV testing, prevention and treatment programs across the country.


CONCLUSIONS
China's new unified, web-based HIV/AIDS information system has improved the efficiency of data collection, reporting, analysis and use, as well as data quality and security. It is a powerful tool to support policy making, program evaluation and implementation of the national HIV/AIDS program and, thus, may serve a model for other countries.
Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing, China.
Yurong
Y
Mao
Zunyou
Z
Wu
Katharine
K
Poundstone
Changhe
C
Wang
Qianqian
Q
Qin
Ye
Y
Ma
Wei
W
Ma
D015492:AIDS Serodiagnosis / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000163:Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome; D044966:Anti-Retroviral Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D002681:China; D003376:Counseling / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods*; D015658:HIV Infections; D015438:Health Behavior; D006801:Humans; D016247:Information Storage and Retrieval / Q000379:methods*; D007256:Information Systems / Q000458:organization & administration*; D020407:Internet; D008691:Methadone / Q000008:administration & dosage; D018571:Sentinel Surveillance
D044966:Anti-Retroviral Agents; D008691:Methadone