KEYWORDS:
immunization registry, linking, central server, hub

BACKGROUND:
Immunization registries are being developed throughout the country using various system designs. One approach is to develop regional registries that are linked to form a larger system. That is the approach taken by the New York State Immunization Information System (NYSIIS). Currently there are two applications being used in three regional registries in New York State (excluding NYC). These are connected to each other through a central 'hub'. Many issues had to be addressed to make this approach viable. These included technical issues such as working with different system platform's database designs and coding formats. Procedural issues like regions having different consent forms and different business rules were also a problem. Ultimately it became apparent that there are economic benefits to linking systems that weren't anticipated such as standardization of educational material and software licenses.

OBJECTIVE(S):
In the linking of regional registries, NYS will be able to create a statewide system to allow the exchange of information between regions that might otherwise be lost

METHOD(S):
Working with the three regional registries, NYS was able to identify inconsistencies between applications and develop solutions that will result in a more complete immunization record

RESULT(S):
Work done to create the central 'hub' put NYS in a position to receive data from other sources such as web clients and third party software systems

CONCLUSIONS(S):
It is hoped that the information provided through our experience will result in other projects being able to make system modifications now that will benefit them in the future when they link with other registries.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES: