ON ENHANCING AND AUTOMATING THE COVID-19 CASE REPORTING SYSTEM IN POLAND

Abstract

Purpose of the study: The paper aims to create a proposal to extend the functionality of the currently operating COVID‑19 case reporting system in Poland. Methodology: Empirical analysis of the current COVID-19 reporting system in Poland with three axes: (1) description of the system functionalities according to official (governmental) sources; (2) listing and characterization of the current system defects causing ineffectiveness of reporting; (3) proposition of systemic alterations to reduce the level of reporting inefficiency preparation and for possible future phenomena related to the pandemic evolution. Main Findings: The reporting system is ineffective as the systems of local medical laboratories performing coronavirus tests are not fully integrated with the central system. Data transfer to the central repository is not executed automatically but relies on manual input by a laboratory technician. Thus, the data in the system are published with a certain delay. Applications of this study: Improving the infection reporting system may prove useful for both legislators and local health regulatory authorities. This may translate into an improved case prediction model and thus greater objectivity in the case of the introduction of new restrictions. Novelty/Originality of this study: The dynamic course of the coronavirus pandemic made it necessary to monitor the number of cases, deaths and, above all, to find outbreaks. The IT systems reporting SARS-CoV-2 cases were developed in a quick manner and solutions were advanced on an ongoing basis. Due to numerous modifications, these systems lack operational efficiency. This study discusses how the current Polish COVID-19 case reporting system works and presents proposals for its refinements which may contribute to ameliorations in many other national systems.