The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

3152.0: Monday, November 11, 2002 - 1:15 PM

Abstract #50193

Raising Immunization Rates of 0-2 year olds through Tiered Intervention

Tina Ellis Coyle, BS1, Wendy Garlitz1, Mary Jo Knobloch, MPH2, and Jeannie Tichy1. (1) Information Systems, Marshfield Clinic, 1000 N Oak, Marshfield, WI 54449, 715-389-7629, elliscot@mfldclin.edu, (2) Center for Community Outreach-Youth Press Initiative, Marshfield Clinic, 1000 North Oak Avenue, Marshfield, WI 54449

Background: The Regional Early Childhood Immunization Network (RECIN) is an Internet based, real-time immunization registry deployed in public and private provider offices in Wisconsin. All providers in Marathon County use RECIN to capture and track immunization data for their patients. Providers met and created a collaborative effort to raise immunization rates in the county. RECIN created a tiered intervention module which records and tracks individual patients’ intervention histories. It moves patients through an automated intervention process, which prevents duplication of services, saves time and money for providers and patients.

Objective: To raise immunization rates of 0-2 year olds to 95% by using Tiered Intervention.

Methods: A task force of public and private providers formed in Spring, 2001 to develop collaborative efforts to raise county-wide immunization rates by using RECIN.

Results: Because of the Tiered Intervention module within RECIN, providers are able to work together to raise immunization rates. Providers designed levels of intervention outreach, or “tiers”, unique to their patient population. Patients not responding to a tier are automatically moved into the next level of outreach, therefore moving them through an intervention process. In May, 2001 immunization rates were 81%. By using Tiered Intervention, rates improved to 91% in eight months and providers expect 95% in early 2002.

Conclusions: Providers can raise immunization rates when they work in collaboration. RECIN’s Tiered Intervention module enhanced the collaborative efforts and allowed ease of tracking and outreach efforts to families.

Learning Objectives:

Keywords: Immunizations, Community Collaboration

Related Web page: www.recin.org

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.

Promoting Health and Reducing Morbidity in Infants and Children

The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA