Data modernization is as much a cultural shift as it is a technical upgrade. It requires strong leadership, organizational change, and ongoing collaboration. NACDD’s Chronic Disease Data Modernization Action Incubator provides guidance and peer support to state teams working to strengthen chronic disease surveillance through data modernization. We’re excited to welcome seven new participants to the Action Incubator: Kentucky, Montana, Rhode Island, Virginia, Washington D.C., Washington State, and Wisconsin.   

These new teams are building on the experiences of states that have participated in earlier rounds of the Incubator. The insights shared by those previous teams, outlined below, reinforce the promising practices included in the Organizational Capacity Framework for Chronic Disease Data Modernization and encourage all chronic disease units to take the lead in driving data modernization within their states.

Key Lessons from Chronic Disease Units

• Use NACDD’s Chronic Disease Data Modernization Self-Assessment to identify strengths and opportunities, then develop an action plan using the provided template.
• Identify a champion within your data modernization initiative who can bring in chronic disease program staff and advocate for their needs.
• Make sure chronic disease program staff have a seat at the table in statewide data modernization efforts.
• Invest in ongoing, high-quality training to strengthen the leadership role of chronic disease epidemiologists in data modernization.
• Conduct a landscape analysis of chronic disease data sources, systems, and partners to guide strategy.
• Explore and pursue funding opportunities to support chronic disease data modernization.