What is eCR?

Electronic case reporting (eCR) is the automated, real-time exchange of case report information between electronic health records (EHRs) and public health agencies. It moves data quickly, securely, and seamlessly from EHRs in healthcare facilities to state and local public health agencies.

eCR uses a centralized platform that allows systems to communicate with each other in real time. eCR runs behind the scenes in the EHR to automatically capture and report required information. If information entered in the EHR matches codes of interest to public health, the data necessary for a public health report are sent to the platform. If the data meet jurisdictional reporting requirements, the report is sent to the appropriate public health agencies for investigation and follow-up.

eCR is a joint effort of the Association of Public Health Laboratories, the Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists, and CDC. These organizations play key roles in leading, implementing, and operating eCR with healthcare organizations, EHR vendors, and public health agencies.