BMC Public Health · 5 authors, 5 centres
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Researchers qualitatively assessed Armenia's infectious diseases surveillance system using CDC guidelines, finding it complex and sensitive but costly and inefficient due to poor specificity, excessive data collection, and limited feedback to reporting sources.
Using CDC guidelines for evaluating surveillance systems, researchers conducted face-to-face interviews and focus group discussions with approximately 50 epidemiologists and 23 health-care workers across national, regional, and local levels in Armenia. No quantitative data (e.g., chart reviews) were gathered to assess quantitative attributes such as sensitivity or predictive value positive. Until 1996, the AIDSS collected aggregate and case-based data on 64 infectious diseases, including those of low pathogenicity or no public health intervention utility. The system lacked standardized case definitions, resulting in poor specificity. Most cases were investigated using a lengthy, non-disease-specific case-report form. Data were analyzed descriptively and reported upward with little feedback, and information was not shared across vertical programs. The system was described as complex and sensitive, yet costly and inefficient. Flexibility, representativeness, and timeliness were noted as good due to a comprehensive health-care system and compulsory reporting.
