All Kids Count Launches Connections Collaboration

Although federal, state and local agencies have expressed strong interest in and some movement toward integrated public health information systems, few truly "integrated" systems now exist. All Kids Count, funded by The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, has as its current goal the development of a "roadmap" on how to build integrated information systems that help ensure timely delivery of health services and follow-up to children.

To further the development of integrated health information systems, All Kids Count this month launched Connections, a collaboration of eight state and local health departments that are working to integrate programs and their supporting technologies, including immunizations, lead screening, newborn metabolic screening, hearing screening, WIC, and Medicaid. Activities of Connections will provide a forum for peer-to-peer exchange of information about best practices in the development of such systems. Knowledge generated by Connections also will be shared with the broader public health community through workshops, publications, the All Kids Count web site and meetings.

Connections comprises public health agencies that are on the leading edge of integrating health information systems. The initial members include: Kansas Integrated Public Health System, Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Michigan Department of Community Health, Missouri Department of Health, New York City Department of Health, Oregon Health Division, Rhode Island Department of Health, and Utah Department of Health. Begun in Spring 2001, Connections will continue through August 2003.

Look for more information about Connections on the new All Kids Count web site, www.allkidscount.org after July 1, or contact thastings@taskforce.org for more information.

Source: Terry Hastings, All Kids Count

June 2001 SnapShots Headlines