Issue Analysis: A Use-Driven Approach to Data Governance Can Promote the Quality of Routine Health Data in India

Key Messages Key issues in India9s health information systems include: Myriad data systems collect reams of public health data, often much more than necessary. These data systems function in silos and do not lend themselves to a holistic view of the health system9s performance. India lacks a functional public policy framework to guide health data use and sharing, and the data systems are often not interoperable. Key Implications Key considerations for policymakers: Deliberate and agree upon a robust health data sharing and use policy framework that enables user-centric data flows and inter-system data sharing. Make actionability the bedrock of data collection efforts by ensuring that systems collect data that either contribute to indicators for measuring health systems performance or support health workers in critical daily tasks. Democratize access to aggregate public health data to citizens and researchers. Set up institutional mechanisms for use of data for research to safeguard citizens9 privacy rights. Embed true interoperability, prioritize decentralization, and consider legacy systems in health information system design. Engage with the private sector to collect data to create a more comprehensive picture of health care service delivery and quality in the country.