The Public Health Information Network (PHIN) Preparedness Initiative
- Affiliations of the authors: National Center for Public Health Informatics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA (JWL, LAC); Northrop Grumman Information Technology, McLean, VA (SRM, JJ)
- Correspondence and reprints: John W. Loonsk, MD, 1600 Clifton Rd, Mailstop D-45, Atlanta, GA 30333; e-mail: <jloonsk{at}cdc.gov>.
- Received 22 February 2005
- Accepted 21 September 2005
Abstract
The Public Health Information Network (PHIN) Preparedness initiative strives to implement, on an accelerated pace, a consistent national network of information systems that will support public health in being prepared for public health emergencies. Using the principles and practices of the broader PHIN initiative, PHIN Preparedness concentrates in the short term on ensuring that all public health jurisdictions have, or have access to, systems to accomplish known preparedness functions. The PHIN Preparedness initiative defines functional requirements, technical standards and specifications, and a process to achieve consistency and interconnectedness of preparedness systems across public health.
Footnotes
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The authors thank the following subject matter experts whose input into the PHIN Preparedness Functional Requirements documents was invaluable. Without their knowledge and expertise and many hours they spent in the requirements gathering process, the PHIN Preparedness Initiative would not be materializing as quickly as it has. These experts are listed in alphabetical order for convenience only: Betty Baker, Robb Chapman, Marty Cicchinelli, Tricia Gallagher, David Groves, Vicki Kipreos, Tim Morris, Tom Russell, David Walker. The authors also wish to thank the following organizations for coordinating their members to provide public health partner input into the PHIN Preparedness Functional Requirements: ASTHO, APHL, CSTE, NACCHO.
