A new study authored by several faculty affiliated with the Center for Disaster Resilient Communities in the Journal of Public Health Management & Practice outlines a vision for a regional data ecosystem that could transform public health preparedness and emergency response across HHS Region 10, which includes Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, Washington and 272 Tribal nations.
Developed through a collaborative process involving public health practitioners, Tribal representatives, health care partners and researchers, the framework aims to overcome long-standing data silos that limit situational awareness and evidence-based decision-making during emergencies. The authors identify trust-based governance, respect for Tribal data sovereignty and interoperable data systems as essential building blocks for success. They also highlight the need to reduce legal, technical and staffing barriers that impede data sharing across jurisdictions.
Together, the recommendations offer a roadmap for creating a more connected, equitable, and data-driven public health preparedness system capable of improving response and recovery outcomes throughout the region.