A step close toward aligning neonatal variables to the national data system

In quarter 2 of 2022, the NEST Tanzania team took a step closer to aligning neonatal inpatient variables for the district, regional and tertiary levels. The exercise involved various stakeholders, including clinicians, professional associations, HMIS representatives, and Ministry of Health representatives. These individuals came together to review and recommend minimal variables to be included in the national District Health Information System 2 (DHIS2). The team developed an inpatient neonatal register that will collect inpatient data with selected indicators that will be linked to DHIS2, contributing to measurements, monitoring, and evaluation. In addition, a post-natal register was discussed to enable following the outcomes for the baby. With these standardized tools and linkage of the data through DHIS2, Tanzania can track neonatal indicators and overall progress, which will assist with planning and informed decision-making for resource allocation for national newborn care.