Introduction to DHIS2

3.4.1 What is DHIS2?

DHIS2 is an open-source platform used in health information systems and other data-management contexts. In health programmes, DHIS2 can support routine data reporting, indicator analysis, visualisation and related information-management activities. Its specific functions depend on how an organisation or health authority has configured and implemented it.

In Nigeria, DHIS2 is relevant to routine health information reporting. However, the availability of particular datasets, dashboards and functions varies by implementation and user permissions.

The four parts of a DHIS2 value

A single DHIS2 value is not just a number. It is a data element, for an organisation unit, in a period, with a category combination. If any one of those four is wrong, the dashboard can still look complete.

3.4.2 What is routine health information?

Routine health information is information collected regularly as part of ongoing healthcare service delivery and health programme operations. Examples include monthly service activity, facility reporting, maternal health indicators, immunisation activity, disease surveillance information where the system includes it, and programme monitoring indicators.

A health facility may maintain source registers and prepare periodic summary reports. These reports may then be submitted through the applicable health information system. The exact reporting process depends on the health programme and the system in use.

3.4.3 Understanding the reporting process

Imagine a fictional primary healthcare centre. During January, it records the number of eligible children who received a specified vaccine. The facility checks its source records and prepares a monthly summary. An authorised staff member enters or submits the summary through the appropriate reporting workflow. The reported information may then be aggregated with reports from other facilities. Health managers can use the resulting data to review reported service activity and identify questions requiring further investigation.

This illustrates the general reporting process. It does not imply that every implementation follows precisely the same workflow.

3.4.4 Understanding indicators in DHIS2

A health information system may contain indicators calculated from defined data elements or other configured sources. An indicator might measure the percentage of expected reports received by a specified deadline. To interpret it, you need its definition, numerator, denominator, reporting period, geographical coverage and data source.

If you do not understand the definition, you may compare figures that are not actually comparable.

3.4.5 How can beginners practise DHIS2?

1. Understand routine health data reporting.
2. Study sample datasets.
3. Learn basic indicator definitions.
4. Review demonstrations of the DHIS2 interface.
5. Practise with an authorised demonstration environment when available.

The official DHIS2 website is a starting point for documentation and learning resources: https://dhis2.org/

A demonstration instance can be useful, but access, credentials, available data and interface details may change. Always use the instance's official instructions. Never attempt to access a restricted production system without permission.

Lesson summary

DHIS2 can support the management and analysis of routine health information. Understanding the reporting process, indicator definitions and data quality is just as important as knowing how to navigate the software.