KEYWORDS:
Registries, Data Quality, Audits
BACKGROUND:
ImmuLink, the Immunization Registry for the Twin Cities metropolitan area, consolidates approximately 600,000 records and 4 million immunizations. Providers submit immunization billing data electronically. Audits are conducted to verify data and file quality at site enrollment and after significant changes in billing systems or submission schedules. Detailed data-analysis processes are undertaken before uploading data. Periodic queries are conducted to ensure continued quality.
OBJECTIVE(S):
To collaborate with providers to ensure an accurate, complete registry.
To help participating providers improve clinic practice, capture lost revenue from inappropriate vaccine administration and billing, and stay abreast of changes in the immunization schedule.
METHOD(S):
All clinics are audited at enrollment, when changes occur in billing systems, or when there is an interruption in file submissions. Clinics must meet accuracy and completeness requirements to be enrolled. Periodic queries are conducted to verify that datafiles capture required demographic and immunization information, and that the clinic has acknowledged and acted upon changes in the immunization schedule.
RESULT(S):
Initial and periodic audits identified vaccine codes not included in providers' electronic export programs, inappropriate administration, charting, or billing of DT instead of TD and lack of Prevnar billing. Audits also identified inconsistent and incomplete use of immunization grids.
CONCLUSIONS(S):
Initial and periodic audits ensure the registry contains high-quality and complete data. Participating providers appreciate information that helps them improve clinic practices, capture lost revenue, and accurately and efficiently immunize patients.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Describe how audits benefit participating providers and the registry by ensuring accurate and complete data and appropriate vaccine administration.
Reinforce the importance of public and private collaboration to ensure a comprehensive, effective and efficient registry.
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Back to The 2002 Immunization Registry Conference of CDC