Data quality assurance: module 2: discrete desk review of data quality

This guidance document presents the World Health Organization’s methodology for conducting a discrete desk review of data quality as part of the Data Quality Review (DQR) toolkit. It provides a standardized framework for assessing the quality of routine health-facility data reported through health information systems, with the aim of supporting evidence-based planning, monitoring and evaluation. The document emphasizes the importance of high-quality data for measuring progress towards national health priorities, the Sustainable Development Goals and global health targets, and for strengthening decision-making across health systems.

The publication describes the objectives, implementation requirements and analytical approach of desk reviews, which rely on existing reported data and do not require additional data collection. It outlines four key dimensions of data quality assessment: completeness of reporting, internal consistency of reported data, external comparison with other data sources, and consistency of population denominators. Guidance is provided on the interpretation of standardized metrics, benchmarks and indicators, including recommended tracer indicators from maternal health, immunization, HIV, tuberculosis and malaria programmes. The document also details available tools and resources, including Excel-based applications and DHIS2-integrated solutions, to support both periodic assessments and continuous monitoring of data quality.