An informatics framework for public health information systems: a case study on how an informatics structure for integrated information systems provides benefit in supporting a statewide response to a public health emergency

This chapter illustrates how a well-established public health informatics framework provides an integrated information system infrastructure that assures and enhances the efficacy of public health emergency preparedness (PHEP) actions throughout the phases of the health emergency event life cycle. Key PHEP activities involved in supporting this cycle include planning; surveillance; alerting; resource assessment and management; data-driven decision support; and intervention for prevention and control of disease or injury in populations. Information systems supporting these activities are most effective in assuring optimal response to an emergent health event when they are integrated within an informatics framework that supports routine (day to day) information exchange within the health information exchange community. In late April 2009, New York State (NYS) initiated a statewide PHEP response to the emergence of Novel Influenza A (H1N1), culminating in a statewide vaccination campaign during the last quarter of 2009. The established informatics framework of integrated information systems within NYS conveyed significant advantages and flexibility in supporting the range of PHEP activities required for an effective response to this health event. This chapter describes, and provides, performance metrics to illustrate how a public health informatics framework can enhance the efficacy of all phases of a public health emergency response. It also provides informatics lessons learned from the event.