Purpose
The purpose of this document is to standardize and formalize the process for adding new and updating existing syndrome definitions (CCDD Categories) in the NSSP-ESSENCE instance of the BioSense platform. While jurisdictions that maintain their own local versions of ESSENCE do not need to follow this process, this can still serve as a guidance document for best practices when developing new or updating existing definitions.
Process Overview
Below are the four broad steps that are involved in developing and adding new or updated definitions to the NSSP-ESSENCE platform. Steps 1-2 are helpful steps for evaluating and developing definitions even if you do not intend to add them to ESSENCE.
1. Research and Requirements Gathering
2. Iterative Testing and Validation
3. External Validation
4. CDC Review and Addition to ESSENCE
Worksheets and Templates for Development Stages
With each stage of the Definition Development Process, there is an accompanying template to help guide you through that stage. The fields in each template are meant to be carried through to the next stage, so think of each template as the draft for the next stage’s template. The Jurisdiction Validation worksheet must be completed to move forward with recruiting additional jurisdictions to formally validate the definition. The Fact Sheet and Technical Brief is required to submit to CDC for review and must be approved by all authors prior to the definition being added to ESSENCE. Although the other templates are not required, they are strongly recommended as a tool for development, even if you do not plan to have your definition added to ESSENCE.
Research and Requirements Gathering Worksheet
Iterative Testing and Validation Worksheet
Jurisdiction Validation Worksheet
Definition Fact Sheet & Technical Brief Worksheet