KEYWORDS:
Immunization Registry, Census Tract, GIS Mapping
BACKGROUND:
In 1996, the Michigan Public Health Code was amended to require an immunization registry. This devised the framework for the Michigan Childhood Immunization Registry (MCIR), and regional areas were developed (effective January 15, 1997). Region 4 MCIR consists of nine counties, including Genesee County. Genesee is comprised of an inner city, urban and rural areas. Health care is provided throughout the county by various organizations including governmental agencies, hospitals and managed care.
As part of the Genesee County Partnership for Immunizations (a local coalition), Region 4 MCIR staff hoped to identify areas with low immunization coverage in the county. The group collaborated with local and state health department epidemiologists to accomplish this goal. “Pockets of need” with low immunization coverage in the county were identified, allowing the group to give more attention to the reasons behind the low rates.
OBJECTIVE:
Identify census tracts with low immunization coverage utilizing MCIR data on Genesee County residents turning two years of age in the year 2002.
METHOD:
Immunization coverage data from the MCIR were mapped using GIS software to identify census tracts with low immunization coverage in Genesee County.
RESULT:
Census tracts with low immunization coverage were identified, allowing Regional and Local Health Department staff to begin determining reasons for the low rates.
CONCLUSION:
Registry data can be helpful in identifying low immunization coverage and pockets of need within a community.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Participants will learn how registry data and GIS software can identify areas of low immunization coverage within a community.
Web Page: www.mcir.org
Handout (.ppt format, 1180.0 kb)
Back to The Fast and The Focused: Timely Detection of Changes to Vaccination Coverage and Pockets of Under-Immunization
Back to The 2003 Immunization Registry Conference (October 27-29, 2003)