Journal of public health management and practice : JPHMP
-
J Public Health Manag Pract · May 2012
Comparative StudyVariations in positive predictive values for rapid influenza tests for 2009 pandemic influenza a (pH1N1)--Arizona, April-October 2009.
Rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs) are used for influenza screening, clinical decision making, and influenza surveillance. In August 2009, a hospital reported increased false-positive RIDT results to the Arizona Department of Health Services. Because of reported RIDT low sensitivities (40%-62%) for 2009 pandemic influenza A (pH1N1), the hospital's report raised further concerns about the specificity and clinical utility of RIDTs. ⋯ Wide PPV variability combined with documented low sensitivity among RIDTs for pH1N1 diagnosis increases concerns about their specificity and clinical and epidemiologic utility for influenza.
-
J Public Health Manag Pract · May 2012
Comparative StudyComparison of electronic laboratory reports, administrative claims, and electronic health record data for acute viral hepatitis surveillance.
Public health surveillance systems for acute hepatitis are limited: clinician reporting is insensitive and electronic laboratory reporting is nonspecific. Insurance claims and electronic health records are potential alternative sources. ⋯ Laboratory surveillance using IgM tests overestimates the burden of acute hepatitis A and underestimates the burden of acute hepatitis B. Claims data are subject to many false positives. Electronic health record data are both sensitive and predictive. Electronic health record-based surveillance systems merit development.