BACKGROUND:
Under contract with the Texas Department of Health (TDH), the Texas Medical Foundation (TMF) has used an electronic site survey tool while conducting quality assurance (AFIX) site visits for TVFC providers. This tool was used by TMF reviewers for 830 site visits in 2002 and for 2,408 visits in 2003. The tool is now also being used by local health department (LHD)and TDH staff.

OBJECTIVE:
Provide easily accessible TVFC site survey data to health department staff through a web-based portal.

METHOD:
TMF staff developed an electronic site survey tool, with initial implementation in March 2002. Data entry directly into the electronic tool during the site survey allows for ease in data collection. Data from the site survey reports has been abstracted and is available on a website designed specifically for display of TVFC-related information and reports. This website is accessible by local and state health department personnel.

RESULT:
Data from site survey reports can be displayed for a LHD, a geographic region, or for the entire state to show:
1. Number of site visits completed.
2. Site visit hours and FTEs used to conduct site visits.
3. Number/percent of "yes," "no," and "not applicable" answers to specific survey items.
4. Number/percent of changes from a "no" answer one year to a "yes" answer on the next year's site visit - by individual provider and composite of all providers.
5. Comparison of one clinic to all clinics in the LHD/ region/state.
6. Comparison of composite data from LHDs/regions.

CONCLUSION:
Data abstraction and accessibility will assist local and state health department personnel in understanding the status of TVFC providers and in identifying training needs.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
1. Describe the value of data collection via an electronic tool.
2. Identify several reports resulting from data abstraction.
3. Identify at least two benefits of data accessibility through a website.