The regional immunization registry as a public health tool for improving clinical practice and guiding immunization delivery policy

Am J Public Health. 2004 Jun;94(6):967-72. doi: 10.2105/ajph.94.6.967.

Abstract

Objectives: We assessed the distribution of immunization records among 3 health care delivery sectors and the impact of a regional immunization registry on "up to date" rates.

Methods: Immunization registry records in 2 regions were categorized as having originated in private practices, community health centers, or public health clinics. "Up to date" rates were calculated after we sequentially added immunization records from the 3 sectors.

Results: The percentage of children with immunizations documented in multiple sectors increased with age from 7 to 24 months, and children who were seen in multiple sectors were more likely to be up to date. There were relative increases in "up to date" rates of 50% for children aged 24 months.

Conclusions: The regional immunization registry is a powerful public health tool for increasing documented "up to date" rates and providing insights into patterns of immunization delivery.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Colorado
  • Female
  • Health Policy*
  • Health Services Research
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Policy Making
  • Practice Patterns, Physicians'
  • Public Health Practice*
  • Quality Assurance, Health Care*
  • Registries / statistics & numerical data*
  • Rural Population
  • Vaccination*