Culture of Data 2025

This presentation highlights the development of a streamlined data collection and sharing system for Adams County Health Department’s (ACHD) Harm Reduction Program, in partnership with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). Supporting multiple programs, the Harm Reduction Program faced complex reporting requirements and relied on a time-intensive, error-prone process: collecting client data on paper and manually entering it into both an internal Excel document and CDPHE’s REDCap database. Seeking to improve efficiency and accuracy, the Harm Reduction team collaborated with ACHD’s Health Data and GIS (HDGIS) team to create the ACHD Harm Reduction Data Ecosystem.

Methods
   The HDGIS team designed the Harm Reduction Data Ecosystem using ESRI software to streamline data workflows and facilitate accurate reporting. To safeguard sensitive client data, the HDGIS team created a temporary data collection database on ArcGIS Online and a permanent secure database on ArcGIS Enterprise. An automated process then securely transferred data to the internal database, reducing manual entry. The team also built two client lookup dashboards for easy record access and updates, enhancing client care continuity. Finally, a monthly data export feature automated ACHD-to-CDPHE data uploads, improving data accuracy and timely reporting.

Results
The Harm Reduction team’s transition to the ACHD Harm Reduction Data Ecosystem has resulted in higher data quality, improved client tracking, enhanced resource referrals, and greater program efficiency. Staff spend less time on data entry, allowing more focus on client services. The team has also expanded their use of program data for insights and informed decision-making.

Recommendations/Practical Applications/Future Goals
   The Harm Reduction Data Ecosystem has strengthened ACHD’s partnership with CDPHE and enhanced data management for the Harm Reduction team. This project serves as a model for similar data solutions across ACHD programs, demonstrating the impact of an integrated, client-centered data approach."