While the exacting work of data and surveillance tasks may not seem very interesting, it yields important information for disease prevention about behaviors, populations, geography and biology for which good health or poor health incidences congregate. It allows public health officials to narrow down clues for possible geographic or demographic concerns such as unsafe water, lead poisoning, disease outbreaks, or age related problems (e.g. youth pregnancy, and abuse of the very young). Consistent review of data on known preventable diseases can alert health officials to the need for interventions. Contagious diseases can quickly spread and the events of September 11 and subsequent Anthrax scare has made all of us more aware of the importance of a reporting system that allows for a rapid response. The Florida Legislature requires providers to report certain diseases to the Department of Health for surveillance.

• Vital Statistics - Birth and Death Records



• Hospital Discharge Billing Records*



• Pregnancy and Risk Assessment Monitoring System



• Medicaid and KidCare Enrollment Records*



• Florida Immunization Registry



• Florida Birth Defects Registry



• Child Abuse Hotline Information System*



• Florida School Indicators Reports*