NEC Assesses AIDS Registry

The National Epidemiology Center of the Department of Health, with support from UNAIDS, has commissioned an independent consultant, Dr. Maridel Borja, to assess the Philippine AIDS Registry. The assessment was started in August 2008 and will end by October 2008.

The scope of work for the consultancy includes: 1) assessing the AIDS Registry by describing the purpose and objectives of the system, its standard operating procedures, and resources utilized to operate the system.; 2) Identifying measures to enhance the Registry’s capability to capture, analyze and report HIV and AIDS related data; 3) Identifying other data (either new or existing from other databases, e.g., electronic medical records) for inclusion to the registry; 4) Designing a data analysis plan to maximize data utilization by various stakeholders; 5) Recommending strategies to increase utilization of data generated by the registry as bases for policy formulation and appropriate actions to stem the occurrence of an impending epidemic; and, 6) Determining the feasibility of setting-up the electronic medical records (EMR) online.

The assessment included desk reviews of registry related documents, records and data, key informant interviews and small group discussions, site and facility visits, and a consensus building workshop held last 22 October 2008 at the Richmonde Hotel, Pasig City (see photos below).