Technical Guidance on leprosy/Hansen disease case-based management system (based on DHIS2)

The WHO Global Leprosy Programme (GLP) uses DHIS2 based applications to collect aggregate data at the country level. Countries have expressed the need for effective surveillance through improved data management system. This has been articulated in the Global Leprosy Strategy 2021–2030 in the form of establishing a digital leprosy case-based management system.

GLP is introducing a DHIS2-based leprosy case-based management system, which provides an integrated platform designed to monitor, manage and control leprosy through a comprehensive and structured approach, including geolocation, management of cases, raising red flags in case of treatment default or any adverse events through a patient dashboard, contact tracing, institutionalizing transfer-in and transfer-out, and linkages to aggregate reporting.

The system begins with registration, capturing vital demographic and clinical information to support early case detection, targeted interventions, and disease monitoring. Clinical information and treatment initiation are integral to the system, facilitating documentation of diagnostic tests, case classification, and symptom and disability assessment. This will ensure timely and tailored treatment while minimizing complications. Case management and follow-up modules allow data entry on treatment regimen and supportive care, such as physiotherapy, wound management, monitoring of adverse drug reactions, and reporting drug resistance. Reaction management is another critical component, focusing on the timely identification and treatment.

The system provides for data on contact tracing, systematically listing and examining contacts and provision of prophylaxis to those eligible. Treatment outcomes are comprehensively documented, including provision for end-of-treatment disability assessments and patient transfers or referrals ensuring continuity of care.

The purpose of this document is to provide step-by-step process of entering and analysing data using the application. Overall, this digital solution provides an efficient and comprehensive approach promoting early detection, individualized care and support, and contact tracing, aligning with global efforts to eliminate leprosy