187377 An interactive computer-based kiosk for health communication regarding influenza vaccination in an urban setting

Sunday, October 26, 2008

Salwa Khan, MD MHS , Dept. of Pediatrics, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD
Richard Lichenstein, MD , Dept of Pediatric Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD
Mohit Arora , UMBC, Baltimore, MD
Ashish Joshi , UMBC, Baltmiore, MD
James King, MD , Dept of Pediatrics, UMD, Baltimore, MD
Background: The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommends influenza vaccination for children from 6mo-18yrs. Data from the National Immunization Survey (NIS) shows that vaccination rates are far from goal. Studies have shown that kiosk based education can be an effective method for communication regarding specific health issues. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of a self-guided, interactive computer-based influenza vaccine educational program for providing information regarding influenza vaccination among parents of children aged 6 mo-5yrs in an inner city setting. Methods: A convenience sample was obtained of parents with children 6 mo-5 yrs presenting to an urban center ED and outpatient clinic 10/2/07-11/29/07. Parents received education and screening questions via a kiosk style computerized interactive module. Results: There was high acceptability of the computer based kiosk, with 93% reporting that they would recommend the program to others. There was a significant change in pre and post test scores of influenza and influenza vaccine information after the kiosk presentation ( p<0.0001). Discussion: The computer based kiosk is an effective and highly acceptable method for improving influenza vaccine knowledge in a pediatric emergency department as well as pediatric ambulatory inner city clinic.

Learning Objectives:
Analyze barriers to vaccination among the pediatric population. Develop kiosk based media for providing parents with influenza vaccination information in an outpatient or emergency room setting.

Keywords: Child Health Promotion, Immunizations

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I am a pediatrician and have a strong background in public health communication. I have worked at the health department level focussing on the epidemiology of influenza and am directly involved with providing vaccinations and education for children and families. I have been directly involved in the planning and implementation of this project.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.