BackgroundImproving maternal health is one of the Millennium Development Goals for 2015. Recently some progress has been achieved in reducing mortality. On the other hand, in developed regions, maternal death is a relatively rare event compared to the number of cases of morbidity; hence studying maternal morbidity has become more relevant. Electronic surveillance systems may improve research by facilitating complete data reporting and reducing the time required for data collection and analysis. Therefore the purpose of this study was to describe the methods used in elaborating and implementing the National Network for the Surveillance of Severe Maternal Morbidity in Brazil.MethodsThe project consisted of a multicenter, cross-sectional study for the surveillance of severe maternal morbidity including near-miss, in Brazil.ResultsFollowing the development of a conceptual framework, centers were selected for inclusion in the network, consensus meetings were held among the centers, an electronic data collection system was identified, specific software and hardware tools were developed, research material was prepared, and the implementation process was initiated and analyzed.ConclusionThe conceptual framework developed for this network was based on the experience acquired in various studies carried out in the area over recent years and encompasses maternal and perinatal health. It is innovative especially in the context of a developing country. The implementation of the project represents the first step towards this planned management. The system online elaborated for this surveillance network may be used in further studies in reproductive and perinatal health.
Objective: To address the essential characteristics of a network and aspects related to network sustainability. Method: A descriptive study based on a two-round Delphi survey was conducted from 2016 to 2018. Researchers participating in maternal and perinatal health networks were identified by searching PubMed for network-based publications and invited to complete a two-round Delphi questionnaire by email. Results: Among 529 eligible researchers identified, 54 (10.2%) and 46 (8.7%) responses were received in the first and second rounds, respectively. A consensus on 13 of 21 [OK] questions, and 5 of 10 questions was achieved in the first and second rounds, respectively. The results indicated that a responsible leader is required, and both coordinators and members have a role in decision-making within the network. Good communication and periodic face-to-face meetings are key factors in sustainability and motivation. Rules for secure access to the network database and definition of authorship of scientific papers are essential. Mentioning the name of the network in publications is important for strengthening its activities and the obtainment of funds.
Conclusion:Although operational characteristics of the network may differ according to setting and collaborators, homogeneous and essential network characteristics were identified.
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