KEYWORDS:
VFC, AFIX, Coverage Rates, Storage and Handling

BACKGROUND:
Maryland Vaccines for Children Program has implemented a Quality Assurance Program that encompasses conducting comprehensive site reviews in provider's practices

OBJECTIVE(S):
To increase immunization coverage rates of 4:3:1:3:3, to ensure proper storage and handling of vaccines, and to assist VFC providers in the implementation of 18 Standards for Pediatric Immunization Practices

METHOD(S):
In April 2001 Vaccines for Children program hired eight VFC Field Representatives to conduct over 800 provider site reviews throughout the State of Maryland. The VFC program using the AFIX component identified six potential areas that could prevent proper management of VFC vaccines and decrease provider immunization coverage rates, these areas are as follows: Entrance Interview, Chart Review, Immunization Coverage Rates (CASA), Vaccine Storage and Handling, Exit Review and Written Report.

RESULT(S):
The AFIX and the educational component used by the VFC Field Representatives enabled the VFC Field Representatives to offer recommendations that assisted providers in making needed changes.

CONCLUSIONS(S):
Immunization coverates are high and vaccine storage and handling is meeting and exceeding VFC expectations. Some providers remain skeptical about participating in the site review program, educating them continues to be a challenge.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
To identify barriers that prevent proper storage and handling of VFC vaccines. In addition, to offer recommendations to assist providers in obtaining the best immunization coverage rates.