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. 2009 May;24(3):217-28.
doi: 10.1093/heapol/czp010. Epub 2009 Mar 20.

PRISM framework: a paradigm shift for designing, strengthening and evaluating routine health information systems

Anwer Aqil  1 , Theo Lippeveld, Dairiku Hozumi
Affiliations

PRISM framework: a paradigm shift for designing, strengthening and evaluating routine health information systems

Anwer Aqil et al. Health Policy Plan. 2009 May.

Abstract

The utility and effectiveness of routine health information systems (RHIS) in improving health system performance in developing countries has been questioned. This paper argues that the health system needs internal mechanisms to develop performance targets, track progress, and create and manage knowledge for continuous improvement. Based on documented RHIS weaknesses, we have developed the Performance of Routine Information System Management (PRISM) framework, an innovative approach to design, strengthen and evaluate RHIS. The PRISM framework offers a paradigm shift by putting emphasis on RHIS performance and incorporating the organizational, technical and behavioural determinants of performance. By describing causal pathways of these determinants, the PRISM framework encourages and guides the development of interventions for strengthening or reforming RHIS. Furthermore, it conceptualizes and proposes a methodology for measuring the impact of RHIS on health system performance. Ultimately, the PRISM framework, in spite of its challenges and competing paradigms, proposes a new agenda for building and sustaining information systems, for the promotion of an information culture, and for encouraging accountability in health systems.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Health information system (HIS) components diagram
Figure 2
Figure 2
Prism framework
Figure 3
Figure 3
PRISM (Performance of Routine Information System Management) framework
Figure 4
Figure 4
Comparisons among different variables related to data quality by countries
See this image and copyright information in PMC

References

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    1. Aqil A. UPHOLD Project. Kampala: John Snow, Inc. (JSI); 2004. HMIS and EMIS situation analysis, Uganda.
    1. Aqil A. 2005. A manual for strengthening HMIS: data quality and information use. Uganda Ministry of Health, Information Resource Centre; USAID, UPHOLD Project, AIM Project.
    1. Aqil A, Orabaton N, Azim T, et al. Determinants of performance of routine health information system (RHIS): evidence from Uganda and Pakistan.. American Public Health Association conference; 10–14 December 2005; Philadelphia. 2005a. abstract #109550.
    1. Aqil A, Hozumi D, Lippeveld T. PRISM tools. 2005b. MEASURE Evaluation, JSI. Available online at: http://www.measure.com. - PMC - PubMed

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