Liz Twigg

Health based geographical information systems: their potential examined in the light of existing data sources

There is much potential for the use of geographical information systems (GIS) within the management and analysis of health and health care data. This paper addresses the problems of using routine data in the creation of geographical information systems for health. The numerous sources of British official routine health information however vary greatly in their geographical coverage and geographical detail. Particular attention therefore focuses upon the extent to which existing data sets can readily be used within GIS. Recommendations for changes in the data collection process are forwarded to improve the potential for GIS use. The overall utility of geographical health information systems within health service planning is illustrated using the example of community based activities.

Health education and baseline data: Issues and strategies in nutrition campaigning

A central problem for health education is the lack of baseline data concerning relevant issues such as smoking, alcohol consumption or nutrition. In the absence of this information there is little detailed knowledge of the publics habits or willingness to change those habits. Furthermore, the social context and spatial variation of these factors is unknown. Often the only way in which suitable information can be acquired is through social surveys. This paper uses a case study of a nutrition survey to outline a general framework for the collection of baseline data. The approach centres around postcode based data linkage. The effectiveness of the approach is considered and its shortcomings noted.