Innovators in our field

The Tracking Program has developed tools, created resources, and shared expertise across a variety of data topics.  Our Data Explorer was one of the first online systems to allow users to view environment and health data side-by-side.  Since then, we have become leaders in data modernization and developed other data tools, including:

• topic-specific dashboards,
• an application program interface (API), and
• versatile data visualization embedding (DVE).

Data to action

The Tracking Network is more than just data.  It's also a network of people who use Tracking for public health change. 

Tracking data and activities

• Informed over 500 public health actions in communities across the country [A]
• Delivered over 17 million data query results on Tracking's Data Explorer
• Enhanced CDC's COVID Data Tracker data display
• Helped develop one of the first tools of its kind with data that can be used to identify, understand, and address environmental justice issues

Tracking data are used in all sorts of ways from routine analyses to more involved epidemiological studies.  Tracking data are also being used to inform policy and target prevention to areas in most need.  Together, these types of analyses can be used to inform data-driven decisions that reduce the burden of health conditions nationwide.

Future directions

With a growing amount of data, tools, and resources, the Tracking Network's future is user-focused and action-driven.  Having established access to environmental and health data, our current and future aim is to develop new and creative ways to make that information useful.  We are developing more focused tools and dashboards like our HeatRisk Dashboard to address current and future public health needs.  While we celebrate the past and current successes of the Tracking Network, we look toward the future.  Along with our funded recipients and partners, we plan to continue and expand efforts to provide information that drives actions to improve health.