KEYWORDS:
electronic immunization reporting

BACKGROUND:
In 1999, Utah developed an electronic database to collect annual immunization reports from schools and childcare facilities. The system was restructured in 2000, to utilize advanced software capable of handling increased data volume, and to use enhanced server capabilities to increase speed.

OBJECTIVE(S):
The objective is to assist in the collection of annual data from schools and childcare facilities statewide.

METHOD(S):
Each facility is assigned a unique User ID and Password that allows access for that facility only to enter their data on the website. Errors due to incomplete information and calculation are flagged for the user to correct before submission can be completed.

RESULT(S):
Data has been collected and the data integrity maintained. Users are not able to change data once it has been submitted unless they contact the database manager at the state to submit changes. These annual reports are the basis for public schools to submit required end of year reports reflecting follow-up on students who lacked the required immunizations at the time of the annual report.

CONCLUSIONS(S):
This reporting system has allowed state immunization staff the time to conduct random audits of schools to ensure compliance. It has allowed facilities to submit data independently, thus decreasing the time needed for data entry at the state level. A similar database is being developed to collect immunization rates from long-term care facilities; specifically the rates for influenza and pneumococcal immunization. It is anticipated this data collection will begin in the fall of 2002.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Participants will understand how an electronic reporting system can enhance the process to collect and evaluate immunization data from schools and childcare facilities. Data could also be collected from other facilities that collect immunization information.