The EPTS Centralization initiative in Mozambique marks a significant leap in healthcare data management. Our mission was clear: to centralize the Electronic Patient Tracking System (EPTS) across provinces, enhancing data security, quality, and accessibility. By hosting a unified EPTS database within each provincial office of the Ministry of Health (DPS), we have streamlined data management and reporting across the country.
Key Achievements:
- Alignment with National and International Standards:
Our centralized database aligns seamlessly with Mozambique’s National Health Information System (HIS) strategies and PEPFAR CDC Mozambique policies, ensuring adherence to international standards and improving overall data integrity.
2. Enhanced Data Quality and Monitoring:
The centralized system reduces duplicate patient entries, identifies “silent transfers,” and flags treatment interruptions. This allows for real-time monitoring of patient and program data, addressing issues promptly and improving patient care.
3. Streamlined Reporting and Data Transfers:
Reporting has become more efficient, with consolidated reports generated at the provincial level. This also includes a significant reduction in the number of Mozart data transfers from over 600 to just eleven, cutting costs and simplifying system maintenance.
4. Improved Security and Cost Efficiency:
By centralizing the database, we have enhanced security and reduced the need for extensive support and maintenance. Quarterly updates are now managed at the provincial level, reducing operational costs and ensuring consistent adherence to security standards.
5. Phased Implementation for Sustainable Growth:
The implementation is structured in phases: central database migration, Master Patient Index (MPI) integration, and optimization of data flow and interoperability. Each phase is designed to build on the previous, ensuring a robust and scalable solution.
Implemented Solution:
- Cloud-Based Centralization: The solution leverages a cloud-based server using the OpenMRS-EIP module, which integrates advanced technologies like Debezium and Apache Camel for efficient data synchronization. This central server consolidates data from all health facilities, enhancing real-time access and interoperability.
- Phased Approach: The process involves migrating health facility databases to a central provincial server, followed by the integration of MPI for improved patient matching and reporting. The phased approach ensures a smooth transition and scalability.
- Technical and Functional Requirements: The implementation requires reliable internet connectivity, harmonized OpenMRS versions, and a central cloud server with specific technical specifications. Functional requirements include real-time synchronization, a monitoring dashboard, and data quality assurance.
Operational Excellence:
The roll-out of the EPTS centralization is executed district by district, upgrading and merging databases into a centralized system. This methodical approach ensures that each health facility transitions seamlessly to the new system, enhancing data management across all provinces.
Looking Forward:
The EPTS centralization not only enhances data management but also paves the way for future interoperability with other health information systems. By ensuring a sustainable and collaborative environment, we are setting the stage for continued improvements in healthcare delivery and data management in Mozambique.
