Strengthening information systems for heart health in Canada.

Information plays a key role in monitoring, management, evaluation and policy development related to cardiovascular diseases. Canada currently lacks a comprehensive, integrated pan-Canadian system to address the growing burden of cardiovascular diseases, including reliable and timely data that can be used by policy-makers, health care providers, researchers and the public. Theme Working Group 1 (one of six Theme Working Groups) aimed to address different aspects of the Canadian Heart Health Strategy and Action Plan, with a focus on strengthening information systems. Members of the group, who are experts in the cardiovascular field and/or information systems, defined the scope of the issue, identified gaps and solutions, and discussed priorities. The process is described and suggestions for final recommendations are presented. These suggestions were made taking into consideration the needs of health care providers, patients and consumers, the needs for planning, innovation, evaluation and system improvement, and the needs for information on populations and environments. A sustained integrated system that meets cardiovascular information needs requires a major commitment of expertise, leadership and funding.