Maine Childhood Immunization Survey: Exploring Determinants of Immunization Compliance among Parents of Preschool-Aged Children

In 2007, the Maine Immunization Program collaborated with University of Southern Maine Muskie School of Public Service to survey Maine parents and explore some barriers and incentives that affect compliance with immunization requirements.

Using a list of vital records, a survey instrument was mailed to a random sample of 8526 parents of children born in the preceding 5 years. An incentive was given to those who mailed back a completed survey. A follow-up telephone survey was administered to mothers who had not completed the mailed survey. In total 31.1% of those sampled completed a survey by mail (65%) or by phone (35%).

As part of the analysis, families were stratified into two classifications: “All Immunized” referred to families that had all children less than five years of age appropriately immunized. “Not All Immunized” referred to families where one or more children were incompletely immunized for their age. This group comprised 10.3% of the completed surveys.

Results demonstrate differences in educational levels and other demographic characteristics between respondents of the two groups, as well as differences in the number of children in each family stratum. Results also point to differences in determinants of health behavior affecting parents' choice, such as differences in health belief about immunization as well as a variation in the source and medium of trusted health information.

Discussion will explore educational and other strategies that might increase parents' compliance with immunization requirements.