Electronic Certification of Death in Slovenia - System Considerations and Development Opportunities

Stud Health Technol Inform. 2016:223:174-81.

Abstract

Background: Accurate and consistent death certification facilitates morbidity and mortality surveillance, and consequently supports evidence-informed health policies.

Objectives: The paper initially explores the current death certification practice in Slovenia, and identifies related deficiencies and system inconsistencies. Finally, the paper outlines a conceptualization of ICT-based model of death certification including renovation of business processes and organizational changes.

Methods: The research is based on focus group methodology. Structured discussions were conducted with 29 experts from cross-sectional areas related to death certification.

Results: Research results imply that effective ICT-based transformation of the existing death certification model should involve a redefinition of functions and relationships between the main actors, as well as a reconfiguration of the technological, organizational, and regulatory elements in the field.

Conclusion: The paper provides an insight into the complexities of the death certification and may provide the groundwork for ICT-based transformation of the death certification model in Slovenia.

MeSH terms

  • Death Certificates*
  • Focus Groups
  • Health Policy
  • Humans
  • Medical Records Systems, Computerized*
  • Organizational Innovation
  • Slovenia