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Open Access 01-12-2022 | Research article

The Sentiworld project: global mapping of sentinel surveillance networks in general practice

Authors: Andrew Meci, Florence Du Breuil, Ana Vilcu, Thibaud Pitel, Caroline Guerrisi, Quentin Robard, Clément Turbelin, Thomas Hanslik, Louise Rossignol, Cécile Souty, Thierry Blanchon

Published in: BMC Primary Care | Issue 1/2022

Abstract

Background

Sentinel networks composed of general practitioners (GPs) represent a powerful tool for epidemiologic surveillance and ad-hoc studies. Globalization necesitates greater international cooperation among sentinel networks. The aim of this study was to inventory GP sentinel networks involved in epidemiological surveillance on a global scale.

Methods

GP sentinel surveillance networks were inventoried globally between July 2016 and December 2019. Each identified network was required to fill out an electronic descriptive survey for inclusion.

Results

A total of 148 networks were identified as potential surveillance networks in general practice and were contacted. Among them, 48 were included in the study. Geographically, 33 networks (68.8%) were located in Europe and 38 (79.2%) had national coverage. The number of GPs registered in these networks represented between 0.1 and 100% of the total number of GPs in the network’s country or region, with a median of 2.5%. All networks were involved in continuous epidemiologic surveillance and 47 (97.9%) monitored influenza-like illness. Data collection methods were paper-based forms (n = 26, 55.3%), electronic forms on a dedicated website (n = 18, 38.3%), electronic forms on a dedicated software program (n = 14, 29.8%), and direct extraction from electronic medical records (n = 14, 29.8%). Along with this study, a website has been created to share all data collected.

Conclusions

This study represents the first global geographic mapping of GP sentinel surveillance networks. By sharing this information, collaboration between networks will be easier, which can strengthen the quality of international epidemiologic surveillance. In the face of crises like that of COVID-19, this is more imperative than ever before.

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Title: The Sentiworld project: global mapping of sentinel surveillance networks in general practice
Authors: Andrew Meci
Florence Du Breuil
Ana Vilcu
Thibaud Pitel
Caroline Guerrisi
Quentin Robard
Clément Turbelin
Thomas Hanslik
Louise Rossignol
Cécile Souty
Thierry Blanchon
Publication date: 01-12-2022
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Primary Care / Issue 1/2022
Electronic ISSN: 2731-4553
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12875-022-01776-x

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

The Sentiworld project: global mapping of sentinel surveillance networks in general practice

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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