ABSTRACT
This study reports the various steps involved in the design of a simplified information system for leprosy (OMSLEP), developed in cooperation between the Unit of Epidemiology, University of Louvain, Belgium, and WHO. The objective of the system is to permit the evaluation of a) the efficiency of programs within the context of established strategies and norms; b) the effectiveness of leprosy control methods from an epidemiological point of view; c) the efficacy and productivity of certain program components. Prior to designing the system, the relevant epidemiological and operational indices have been reviewed. A survey was also made of the forms used by some 78 leprosy control schemes throughout the world in order to analyze the current information now being collected. The proposed system is described. It includes individual record form to be filled at registration and once yearly in subsequent years of follow-up, a detection form, and an annual statistics form for the tabulation of total patients. The system is presently being tested in some 15 countries.