Section 1.35. Purpose of the State Center of Health Statistics and Research

In addition to serving as the focal point for coordinating the collection, analysis and dissemination of health data, the State Center for Health Statistics and Research shall:

(1) Provide statistical support services to meet the needs of Federal, State and local data users and providers in both public and private sectors.

(2) Continue its commitment to reducing duplication of data collection and processing through shared data systems to:

(i) Improve the quality, timeliness and comparability of health statistics.

(ii) Analyze and disseminate information on the health status of Pennsylvanians and utilization of the health care delivery system.

(iii) Provide equal access to data to appropriate data users. Access shall be limited by provisions of guarantees for the confidentiality of individually identifiable data.

(iv) Support the goals and objectives of a National cooperative health statistics system.