Completeness of tuberculosis records held on the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System (SINAN) in Santa Catarina, Brazil, 2007-2016

Abstract

Objective: to describe the completeness of tuberculosis (TB) case records in Santa Catarina, Brazil, from 2007 to 2016. Methods: this was a descriptive study using Notifiable Health Conditions Information System data; completeness, consistency of notification form records and timely notification were analyzed in order to assess data quality. Results: completeness of notification form mandatory fields was considered good; essential fields were less complete, in particular the ‘Schooling’ field; low completeness of follow-up sputum smear microscopy and failure to update culture tests and HIV serology tests demonstrate weaknesses in follow-up records. Conclusion: the tuberculosis surveillance system data were considered adequate for guiding tuberculosis prevention and control actions; record monitoring and periodical evaluation, as well as adoption of strategies to improve follow-up report completeness are recommended.