The Comprehensive Response Information Management System

Abstract

Early in China’s HIV/AIDS response, many separate data collection and information management systems arose to meet the needs of different programs and stakeholders. The data were not standardized across systems, and there were both gaps and redundancies between systems, limiting the value of the information. Meanwhile, inefficiencies were rapidly growing. Thus, a massive project was undertaken to create China’s National HIV/AIDS Comprehensive Response Information Management System (CRIMS), the largest HIV information system in the world. CRIMS is an integrated, web-based system for real-time collection and reporting that facilitates timely monitoring and evaluation of all aspects of China’s HIV epidemic. CRIMS, through its automatic alert functionality, real-time updates, database integrity controls, and easy accessibility of both raw data and summary statistics, has made a major contribution to the prevention and control of HIV in China. Data generated from the system have been used to support the implementation of large-scale national-level HIV prevention programs and modification of testing and treatment protocols nationwide. It has provided scientific evidence for HIV-related policy decisions at all levels, national, provincial, and even down to individual counties, towns, and villages. Furthermore, CRIMS has contributed immensely to the conduct of critical HIV research.