From data collection to downstream data use: Malaysia’s experience with ICD-11

Abstract

Background: The transition of systems to the International Statistical Classification of Diseases 11th Version (ICD-11) allows access to comprehensive data that accurately portray the complexity of morbidity and mortality data in Malaysia. Objective: To demonstrate Malaysia’s experience in implementing ICD-11, from data collection to downstream data use applications. Method and implementation: We describe improvements to existing data source systems and downstream data applications. For non-HIS and HIS (ICD-10) systems, data were manually entered into the health management information system equipped with ICD-11 or automatically mapped from ICD-10 to ICD-11. Following these system improvements, we collected and reported ICD-11 data from all hospitals nationwide, regardless of the individual systems’ status in ICD-11 use. Discussion: Lessons learnt related to legacy systems; ICD-11 releases and system updates; mapping; reporting; human resources and related applications. Conclusion: With careful planning, standardisation of the collection and use of ICD-11 data can be accomplished with limited resources and in a complex environment with heterogeneous systems. Implications: Use of ICD-11 data in downstream data applications improves data quality to answer specific business or research questions.