The knowledge layer: the role of key messages for translating data into meaning

Abstract The large volume of data generated by health information systems often remains siloed within the institutions that produce it, posing significant challenges to its reuse and interpretation. This fragmentation can result in conflicting information on critical health topics, complicating the decision-making process for policymakers. To address this issue, Belgium has initiated the ‘Health Status Report’ website, hosted at healthybelgium.be. This website aims to synthesize and present health data in a manner that supports evidence-based policy formulation. The website adopts a structured approach to data integration and interpretation: initially, we identify and prioritize key health topics based on their relevance and the quality of available data. Subsequently, we merge and analyze data from diverse sources to discern patterns and trends that are crucial for public health monitoring. The insights gained are then presented through both narrative texts and interactive visualizations, facilitating access and understanding for a broad audience. Crucial to this process is ongoing communication with experts and stakeholders, ensuring that the data is not only accurately interpreted but also aligns with the needs and expectations of its users. We also aim to translate the raw data into meaningful key messages by consulting with internal and external experts. This interactive platform thus serves as a critical tool for translating complex health data into actionable knowledge, enabling informed public health strategies and interventions.