Alternatives to a Health Surveillance information system: a case study of DIVISA/BA

Vigil Sanit Debate, Rio de Janeiro, 2024, v.12: e02145 Published on: 20/02/2024

Abstract

Introduction: In Brazil, Health Surveillance (Visa) is a subsystem of the Unified Health System (SUS), where each federated entity has responsibilities established through agreements. Therefore, data and information are fundamental to evaluate, monitor, and manage risks, identifying priorities and the impact of Visa actions. Software support allows to organize the construction of indicators that serve this purpose. Objective: To present the information systems used by the Bahia Health and Environmental Surveillance Directorate (DIVISA/BA) and discuss the alternatives used by the institution to understand, analyze and manage the health risk in its territory, identifying the gaps and overcoming strategies presented. Method: 19 Annual Management Reports (RAG) were analyzed, covering the years between 2002 and 2020. Results: Relevant findings regarding the existence and use of information systems or alternatives used to identify and manage health risk were presented in a timeline. It was observed that DIVISA/BA developed some information systems with limited objects and activities, in addition to using systems made available by Anvisa and DATASUS. Some tools were also used to monitor indicators and goals. Conclusions: Although the development of a national Visa information system is a challenge for Anvisa as national coordinator of the National Health Surveillance System (SNVS), States can organize the available information, whether through systems or alternative solutions, in order to deepen knowledge of the territory, identifying risks that guide health surveillance actions, prioritizing areas that are in fact decisive for the population’s health problems.