Data quality assurance: module 1: framework and metrics

This document presents the framework and metrics of the WHO Data Quality Assurance (DQA) toolkit, developed collaboratively by WHO, Gavi, the Global Fund and USAID partners to support countries in strengthening the quality of routine health-facility data. Recognizing that high-quality data are essential for health-sector monitoring, planning, programme management and progress towards national and global health goals, the publication provides a harmonized approach for assessing, assuring and improving data quality within health information systems. It outlines the objectives, scope and methodology of the Data Quality Review (DQR), including routine data quality assurance, desk reviews of reported data and site assessments conducted at health facilities and district levels.

The guidance defines key dimensions of data quality, including completeness, timeliness, internal consistency, external comparison with other data sources and consistency of population denominators. It describes standardized metrics, benchmarks and recommended tracer indicators across major programme areas such as maternal health, immunization, HIV, tuberculosis and malaria. The document also details governance arrangements, implementation resources and mechanisms for using review findings to identify system weaknesses, monitor performance over time and support continuous improvement in the production and use of health-facility data for decision-making.