A project being implemented by the Fundación Valle del Lili (FVL) aims to establish a comprehensive informatics monitoring framework for maternal health that will be created based on a consensus community of practice and an ontology-based data integration approach, in which there is not only data collection, but processes variables included that can be used in a feedback mechanism to improve training and monitoring.
Currently, there is no active and widely accepted integrated database for maternal health indicators.
This approach will be based on the ISH4 framework as well as regional and global mandates. It will enhance capacity at the institutional and country levels, to generate actionable and comparable knowledge that facilitates analysis, research, and evidence-based decision making across all Member States. The project will keep standardization of clinical structure and content across all existent databases, such as the Perinatal Information System (SIP) developed by PAHO/CLAP, while being technologically and culturally appropriate.
Currently, there is no active and widely accepted integrated database for maternal health indicators. The online platform will be used to establish a comprehensive mapping of core set of common indicators for all Member States and will facilitate access to information, knowledge and experience, as well as best practices and lessons learned.
Most cases of maternal deaths could be avoided with timely access to quality healthcare, but a key challenge in addressing quality of care in maternal health, is the lack of accurate data. A comprehensive informatics monitoring framework can track progress on the achievement of the international targets and priorities toward ending preventable maternal mortality and improving maternal and child health, while at the same time it builds capacity at levels to collect indicators.
Once fully executed, the project will have fully implemented a comprehensive informatics monitoring framework for maternal health to effectively enhance data use for decision making and ensure accountability of implementation. It will also strengthen surveillance, monitoring, and evaluation systems to expand the research and evidence base for policy planning.
This project was one of the winners of the winners of the call for proposals for the implementation of IS4H projects promoted by the Pan American Health Organization. The Valle del Lili Foundation, located in Cali, is the largest teaching hospital in Colombia.