National Congenital Anomaly Advisory Group

Background

The National Congenital Anomaly Advisory Group (NCAAG) provides expert clinical advice on re-establishing a national congenital anomalies data collection. 

Terms of reference

The NCAAG:

• provides expert advice and guidance on current and emerging congenital anomaly issues of relevance to the project
• provides expert advice regarding the national congenital anomaly data collection and the development of data set specifications for the National Congenital Anomalies Data Collection
• provides expert advice to identify the relevant issues and appropriate methods for national congenital anomaly reporting
• provides expert advice around establishment of a new national congenital anomalies collection, including guidance around ensuring a future data collection can provide data and evidence to inform policy, driving improvements in safety and quality in healthcare
• facilitates communication with professional bodies and other stakeholders where applicable to assist the Secretariat in progressing consultation on relevant items
• reviews draft reporting templates and draft reports and suggest revisions where appropriate
• provides expert advice identifying national congenital anomaly issues that should be considered for reporting and how such data can be accessed
• provides expert advice regarding possible ways by which feedback can be given to:
  • state and territory congenital anomaly collections, however named
  • state and territory health departments
• receives and reviews ad-hoc out-of- session papers, updates and reports from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) and provides relevant feedback.

The NCAAG provides updates through the Chair or the NCAAG Secretariat:

• to the National Maternity Data Development Project Advisory Group for policy and strategic matters
• to the National Perinatal Data Development Committee for common data related issues
• to the Group Head, Priority Populations and Capability Group, AIHW (or delegate) for functional matters.

Membership

The NCAAG consists of a representative from each state and territory, clinical experts, consumer representatives and the AIHW.

Other observers and temporary members may be invited on a transitory basis as their expertise is required.

Secretariat

Secretariat support is provided by the AIHW Maternal and Perinatal Health Unit.