Perinatal Mortality Surveillance System

Data Collection Type
National data collections of health and social care in Ireland
Organisation

National Perinatal Epidemiology Centre, Anu Research Centre, Cork University Maternity Hospital

Year established

2008 — established. 
2011 — data collection tool.

Statement of purpose

To address the investigation of perinatal mortality in Ireland from a clinical perspective. To identify modifiable risk factors impacting on adverse perinatal outcomes. This will enhance clinical interpretation of perinatal deaths, which will further assist in informing clinical practice, public health interventions and counselling of prospective parents.

Coverage

National

Description

Designated coordinators within all maternity units collate and submit data on all perinatal deaths occurring in their unit to the NPEC using a specific, detailed notification form.  

Data content

Anonymised data including: maternal details (demographics, past medical history, current pregnancy details including delivery and maternal outcomes); hospital details; baby’s details (including cause and timing of death). 

Data providers

All Irish maternity units.

Data collection methodology

Data is submitted either via the secure online NPEC database, or alternatively by paper format.

Data dictionary

Not available

Clinical coding scheme

NPEC maternal and fetal classification system on cause of death. This was based on the validated Centre for Maternal and Child Enquiries (CMACE) classification system.

Size of national collection

In 2014, similar to previous years, there were 493 cases.

Publication frequency

Annual National NPEC perinatal mortality reports. Annual individual maternity hospital reports.

Accessing data

NPEC has a data access policy. Applicants must complete a data request form which is reviewed by a data access committee.

Open data portal access

No

Email contact
Telephone contact