Improving rheumatic fever surveillance in New Zealand: results of a surveillance sector review.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The New Zealand (NZ) Government has made a strong commitment to reduce the incidence of rheumatic fever (RF) by two thirds, to 1.4 cases per 100,000, by mid-2017. We reviewed the NZ RF surveillance sector, aiming to identify potential improvements which would support optimal RF control and prevention activities.

Methods

This review used a recently developed surveillance sector review method. Interviews with 36 key informants were used to describe the sector, assess it and identify its gaps. Priorities for improvement and implementation strategies were determined following discussion with these key informants, with policy advisors and within the research team.

Results

Key improvements identified included the need for a comprehensive RF surveillance strategy,

SUBMITTER: Oliver J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4049392 | biostudies-literature | 2014 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature