Data uses, benefits, and barriers for the behavioral risk factor surveillance system: a qualitative study of users.

The purpose of this study was to describe data use, benefits, and barriers among BRFSS users. A trained facilitator conducted eight focus groups of eight to 12 state health department employees. NUD*IST qualitative software was used to code responses. Users viewed the BRFSS as an invaluable data set. Data were used most frequently for public education, trend analyses, planning, policy support, and program evaluation. Common barriers to data use included limited availability of regional and subgroup data, lack of data analysis skills, and inadequate staff resources. Users described the BRFSS as a beneficial data source, but some barriers impede its usefulness.