State launches new online research tool

State introduces a new online research tool

Health risk factor data now available via InstantAtlasTM 

ANCHORAGE — The Alaska Section of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Public Health, is launching a new dynamic data visualization online research tool called Informed Alaskans — Health Maps. The tool uses InstantAtlas, a nationally recognized program, to allow users to view and compare sets of information and data using color-coded charts, tables and maps. 

Informed Alaskans incorporates Alaska’s Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) information to depict as many as 153 health risk factors across the state. Health Map users can view Alaska public health data subdivided into six public health regions, seven metropolitan/micropolitan statistical areas, 27 boroughs and census areas, or 12 tribal health regions. Four templates or formats are available for displaying Alaska BRFSS data both spatially and temporally. 

“The Informed Alaskans site is designed for health care providers, health advocates, researchers, students and other stakeholders to use,” Charles Utermohle, the project coordinator, said. “Users can download all maps, charts and tables for use in their own reports, presentations and analyses.” 

BRFSS information will be updated on a regular basis. The section also plans to expand the Informed Alaskans website to display additional information such as birth and death statistics, hospital admission and discharge statistics, and trauma or injury statistics. 

Background on the BRFSS data available using the Informed Alaskans — Click Here for Health Maps

Contact:
Greg Wilkinson
(907) 269-7285
Cell (907) 382-7032 
gregory.wilkinson@alaska.gov 

Ann Potempa,
(907) 269-7957
Cell (907) 230-4001 
ann.potempa@alaska.gov