Evaluation of the Vietnamese A6 Mortality Reporting System

Abstract

There has been no systematic evaluation of Viet Nam’s A6 mortality reporting system. An evaluation was undertaken in 3 provinces in Viet Nam. Deaths identified in the A6 system were compared with deaths identified by an independent consensus panel to determine the percentage completeness of the A6 system. Verbal autopsies (VAs) were conducted for all identified deaths from the consensus panels, and the sensitivity and positive predictive value of the A6 system was assessed. The sensitivity of the A6 system varied depending on the cause of death, with the sensitivity of the system being excellent for injury (sensitivity = 75.4%), cancer (sensitivity = 66.9%), and circulatory diseases (sensitivity = 63.1%). The A6 mortality reporting system performs well in relation to its completeness and classification of 3 leading causes of death—namely, circulatory disease, cancer, and injury. With further enhancements and ongoing support from government and donor agencies, the A6 system will be a valuable resource.