The purpose of this project was to increase immunization coverage levels of 2-year-olds in private providers' offices. In 1994, Idaho's coverage of two-year-old children who were up-to-date for the recommended immunization schedule was 64%. By 1998 Idaho increased its immunization rate for 2-year-olds to 76.4%. Nationally, AFIX is a proven method for increasing immunization rates.
The assessment portion of the project included chart review of 3-35-month-old children in private providers' offices. Reports were generated that included coverage levels for series of vaccinations, children who were missing immunizations, and antigen- and age-specific coverage levels. The feedback portion of the project consists of presenting assessment results to the practice at staff meetings and offering suggestions for increasing coverage levels. Incentives are provided for provider and staff participation.
AFIX was successfully completed in 67 private practices in Contract Year 1. The mean coverage levels for both the 4:3:1 and the 4:3:1:3:3 vaccine series were 49% and 38% respectively. Coverage rates for both the 4:3:1 and the 4:3:1:3:3 vaccine series ranged from 0%-100%. Practices that were eligible for follow-up assessments experienced a mean improvement of 32 and 28 percentage points for the 4:3:1 and the 4:3:1:3:3 series, respectively.
Feedback presentations were well received. Information was exchanged among practices to assist all providers in streamlining documentation efforts and also increasing coverage rates. Follow-up assessments for Contract Year 2, with minor changes to methodology are planned to determine whether the intervention has continued to have positive affects on private providers' coverage rates.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to: 1) Define the components of the AFIX project 2)Describe the immunization climate in Idaho and articulate the justification of the AFIX project 3)Recognize the value and impact AFIX can have on improving immunization rates in private practices
Keywords: Immunizations, Assessments
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.