COVID-19 has highlighted issues that make it a challenge to collect, share, and use health data for the benefit of Canadians. 'Health data' includes public health, health system and population health data. Reliable, timely and relevant public health data are crucial to help public health officials provide their best advice in public health emergencies. Good health data also leads to improvements in health outcomes for Canadians in the longer term. Health data is collected and shared now, but there are important gaps.