Classification and Capture of Work-Related Non-Fatal Injuries Through a Real-Time Syndromic Surveillance System

Syndromic surveillance is used by state agencies to collect real-time information on disease outbreaks but has not been used to collect occupational data. Staff has begun evaluating a real-time surveillance tool to track occupationally-related emergency room visits throughout the state via EpiCenter and applying established epidemiologic techniques to a different set of circumstances. Incorporating Syndromic Surveillance data with hospital discharge data will enhance the classification and capture of work-related non-fatal injuries with possible improved efforts at prevention. Evaluating this dataset will enhance existing surveillance; provide a broader characterization of health risks faced by worker populations; and allow for quicker response.