As we have released DHIS2 v42, we expect a major change, i.e. the shift from Tracker Capture to the Capture app for individual data collection. In this post, DHIS2 product team aims to support implementers and their teams by addressing common concerns and questions users are likely to ask during this transition.
These Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) were developed by reviewing CoP discussions and speaking with HISP implementers preparing for the switch. Our goal is to help you feel confident guiding others through this change.
Note: In each question below, “I” refers to the end user, and responses are written to help implementers relay answers clearly.
Understanding the transition
Q: Why is the Tracker Capture app no longer available? What does this mean for me?
A: The Tracker Capture app was officially retired in May 2025 with the release of DHIS2 version 42. This was done to upgrade platform core functionalities, ensuring enhanced performance, security, and sustainability. This means any updates, bug fixes, or new features will only be added to the Capture app.
Q: What happens if I don’t make this shift from Tracker Capture to the Capture app?
A: You can still access Tracker Capture in older versions of DHIS2, but it will no longer receive updates or support. Over time, this may lead to incompatibility with future versions or missing out on critical functionality improvements.
Q: Do I have to re-enter all my previous records into this new Capture app?
A: No, your previously recorded data will remain safe. All Tracker data (tracked entities, enrollments, and events) are saved in the database independently of the app you use.
Q: Do I need to be retrained?
A: A full retraining may not be necessary, but some orientation will help users understand new features and interface updates. Many workflows are still familiar but enhanced for better usability.
Getting familiar with Capture
Q: Which app icon should I select to record person (tracked entity) information?
A: Look for the icon below to identify the new Capture app. This replaces Tracker Capture for individual-level data entry.
Q: Why has the layout of the Capture app changed from the previous version?
A: The new layout is part of our effort to modernise the app and make it easier to use. It’s designed to be more user-friendly, and make tasks like entering patient/client information faster and easier.
Some key improvements include:
- Cleaner, less cluttered interface
- Context selector (the top bar that allows you to select Program, Org Units, etc.)
- Introduction of working lists
- Enhanced performance (faster experience)
- Support for plugins as extension points
Day-to-Day Use
Q: What is the difference between creating new and enrolling a person (or tracked entity) in DHIS2?
A: In Tracker Capture, you always had to register a new tracked entity and enroll them into a program right away. In Capture you have the opportunity to create a new tracked entity without enrolling them into a program. This means the system now knows that they exist, and you can find them again later. For example, you might register someone during their first visit to the facility, before deciding what service they might need.
Enrolling them links that person to a specific program, like Antenatal Care or HIV Treatment. This is where you start collecting program-specific information about their care.
To learn how to register a person, watch this video:
Capture (1/7): Interface Review and Registering a TEI
To enroll a person, use the context selector at the top of the screen and select the program and organisation unit and then select create new [program entity] this will enroll them into the program with an organisation unit.
Q: How can I search for a person (tracked entity )in the Capture app? Is this feature enhanced in the Capture app?
A: Yes, the Search option in the capture app has been improved but the idea remains the same.
In the capture app:
- Use the top bar to choose the organisation unit and the program.
- Click the Search tab ( next to new or create).
- Enter the person details (non unique attributes) or by unique attributes (System case ID)
- Choose between local search (within your selected org unit) or “Search in all org units” if enabled.
- Click on the matching result
The Search interface is more user friendly which allows better filtering.
To learn how to do this, watch this video.
Capture (2/7): Searching for a TEI & the Tracker Dashboard
Q: Can I enroll a person (tracked entity) in multiple programs?
A: Yes. The method remains very similar to the Tracker Capture app.
After registering a person (tracked entity), you can enroll them in additional programs directly from their Enrollment Dashboard.
You can easily switch between programs the person is enrolled in using the program selector in the context bar at the top. This helps streamline data entry for the patient (or any other tracked entity) participating in multiple programs, such as maternal health, nutrition, or HIV care.
To learn how to do this, watch this video.
Capure (5/7): Enroling into multiple programs
Q: Why would I need to create relationships in the Capture app? What does creating a relationship do?
A: Using “Relationships” to link two people (tracked entities) helps you track related cases together (for example, like a mother and child). This is especially helpful when these related individuals have connected followups or services.
To learn how to create relationships, watch this video:
Q: How can I transfer a person (tracked entity) to another facility?
A: On the Enrollment Dashboard, go to the Enrollment widget on the right side of the screen.
- Click Enrollment Actions.
- Choose the Transfer option (previously called “permanent referral” in Tracker Capture) to move a client to a different facility (organisation unit).
This updates their location and keeps all their existing data and records intact.
Capture (7/7): Referrals and Transfers
To learn more about other functionalities that might be frequently used, refer to these videos:
-
Entering information about a person (tracked entity) after enrollment
Capture (3/7): Entering Tracker Data -
Editing or deleting a patient profile from a program, or from the system
Capture (6/7): Profile and Enrollment Widgets
New features
Q: What are working lists? What can I do with them?
A: Working lists are saved, filtered views of tracked entities(TEs) or events in the Capture app. They let you quickly access the records you care about, without having to reapply filters every time.
Here are some examples of what working lists could help track:
- Enrollments in a specific program
- Missed visits or follow-ups
- Cases assigned to a specific user
- Records from a certain time period or location
Capture supports working lists at two levels:
- Enrollment level:( e.g., view all women newly enrolled in ANC this month)
- Program stage level:( e.g., view only those who haven’t completed their second ANC visit)
These lists help frontline staff, supervisors, and managers stay on top of daily work, by making follow-ups easier and progress more visible.
Finding Help and Support
Q: Who can I reach out to if something doesn’t seem right?
A: Your local implementation team or HISP partner will continue to provide support. In addition, the DHIS2 Community of Practice remains an active space for support or any questions. We aim to do our best to answer your questions.
If you’re an implementer conducting training, feel free to adapt these responses to your context. We’ll continue to address more questions as they arise. If you have suggestions or spot gaps, reach out to the DHIS2 Product team or post on this thread. We look forward to learning from you!