We’re pleased to share two publications based on the experience of Multi-State EHR-Based Network for Disease Surveillance (MENDS), a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-funded data modernization pilot project that leverages electronic health record (EHR) data to generate timely prevalence estimates of chronic disease risk measures at national and local levels.
“Validation of Multi-State EHR-Based Network for Disease Surveillance (MENDS) Data and Implications for Improving Data Quality and Representativeness,” published in Preventing Chronic Disease (Volume 21 — June 13, 2024) describes the validation process undertaken by MENDS to identify and resolve data quality issues that could affect chronic disease prevalence estimates. It provides lessons learned and concludes with recommendations for future validation efforts that are generalizable to other public health surveillance initiatives using EHR data.
“MENDS-on-FHIR: Leveraging the OMOP Common Data Model and FHIR Standards for National Chronic Disease Surveillance,” published in JAMIA Open (Volume 7, Issue 2, July 2024 online May 29, 2024) found that using the Bulk FHIR® data standard could increase interoperability and reduce barriers to accessing data for public health surveillance. This study presents a technical approach for enhancing interoperable data exchange in chronic disease surveillance efforts. Using Bulk FHIR as a standards-based data source for population-level surveillance could greatly expand the reach of public health use cases as certified EHR systems meet the 21st Century Cures Act requirements. Implementation also could inform others how to leverage Bulk FHIR-based data exchange, especially institutions with access to relevant clinical data stored in the OMOP CDM.
Visit MENDS for more information and to access project resources such as a governance document that details principles, policies, and processes. In addition, learn more about NACDD’s Center for Public Health Leadership workforce development offerings for health departments, including online learning courses for enhancing chronic disease surveillance using clinical data.