CDC Launches Updated Public Health Data Strategy for 2024-2025 and Lookback Report for 2023

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has unveiled its updated Public Health Data Strategy for 2024-2025, along with a companion 2023 Lookback Report. This strategy aims to enhance the exchange of data between healthcare organizations and public health authorities at all levels, ensuring a rapid response to new health threats.

CDC Director Mandy Cohen emphasized the importance of a modernized public health data infrastructure, stating that data are crucial for detecting and responding to health threats. The strategy builds upon the achievements of 2023, which saw significant progress in connecting public health to healthcare data systems and streamlining tools for better detection and response to health threats.

One standout achievement of 2023 was the increase in electronic case reporting (eCR) from healthcare facilities to public health agencies. This allows for faster data sharing, leading to quicker case investigations and outbreak responses. Additionally, key achievements included expanding electronic laboratory reporting, routinizing real-time reporting from hospital emergency departments, and improving data access in rural communities.

Looking ahead, the updated strategy for 2024-2025 focuses on accelerating the adoption of eCR, connecting public health to health IT for faster data sharing, and expanding core data sources for early threat detection and real-time monitoring. The strategy also prioritizes addressing health disparities and promoting health equity through increased reporting on social determinants of health-related data.

Overall, the CDC’s updated Public Health Data Strategy sets a clear path for improving data exchange and response capabilities to protect the health of communities across the country.