Figure 1
Stepwise approach in monitoring contacts when a patient with COVID-19 is detected.
GPS = global positioning system.
Table 1Information collection methods for the monitoring and management of patients with COVID-19 and their contacts.
Collection item*
|
Purpose and use |
Advantages |
Limitations |
Related branch and institution |
History of using medical facilities |
(Purpose) Identify the clinical symptoms and date of initial onset of symptoms of the patient
|
|
Long time needed to review the medical records
If there are no related symptoms because the medical facilities were visited for a different illness, it is impossible to obtain related information
|
National Health Insurance Corporation Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service |
GPS (cell phone location) |
(Purpose) Identify the route of the patient
Verify the consistency of the patient claims
Additionally check the previous route
Use phone GPS (latitude and longitude) data
|
|
There are limitations to specify accurate location information because mobile phone locations are used
Errors if the name on the phone and location of purchase (overseas) are different
Long time needed to view the information if there is a large difference between the time of patient confirmation and date of symptom onset
|
National Police Agency |
Card transaction log |
(Purpose) Identify the route of the patient
|
Specify the visited location, and use it to select the scope of contact investigation
Monitor detailed route within a location
|
|
Financial Services Commission |
CCTV |
(Purpose) Identify the route of the patient
|
Check whether the patient was wearing protective gear (e.g., mask) and the patient’s clinical condition at the corresponding location
Help evaluate the risk of exposure if there is a large unspecified number of contacts
|
|
National Police Agency |