Virginia Vital Events and Screening Tracking System (VVESTS)

Description

Death certificate data contain medical information, including underlying and contributing cause(s) of death, from medical providers, medical examiners, or coroners, and are the primary source of data for official mortality statistics in the United States.

How the Community can use the Data

The Vital Event Statistics data helps community members, researchers, public health professionals, and policymakers understand key population trends in Virginia. By analyzing data on births, deaths, marriages, and divorces, users can identify health disparities, support public health initiatives, inform policy and planning decisions, and track progress on health outcomes. This information is vital for developing programs and strategies that promote the health and well-being of communities across the Commonwealth.

Data Limitations

The accuracy and completeness of the data depend on the information provided by certifiers, healthcare professionals, and individuals during registration. Reporting errors or missing information can impact data quality. Additionally, there may be delays in data processing and finalization, and certain data elements may be restricted to protect privacy. The data reflects official records and may not capture all factors influencing population health and demographic trends.