09 – Strengthening Information Systems and Linkages to Care

The first step to building (or buying) an optimal information system for TB management is to plan. Section 5 of this field guide outlines the resources needed to create and run these systems; it is important to ensure that those resources are in place or can be made available when needed as the system is developed and deployed, and enters maintenance phase. While Section 2 outlines the various features and characteristics of an optimal system, it must be understood that context and available resources will often determine what can and cannot be built (or bought). Some components may already be in place, while others will need to be built from scratch. Those components that are in place may not be functioning well and may require changes and enhancements. Multiple stakeholders should be consulted in the planning phase (see Table 2 below). Careful planning will enable systems to mature over time when resources are available and ensure that the minimum set of features needed for a TB programme to use the system effectively are available from the outset. Since this minimum will vary by country and context, programmes will need to decide on their priorities and plan accordingly.