KEYWORDS:
Immunization Registries, Recruitment, Retention, Providers

BACKGROUND:
The success of any Immunization Registry relies not only on the successful recruitment of providers, but also retention. Since 1998, PHS has worked with regional registries across upstate New York to develop models to successfully recruit and retain private providers. As a voluntary participation state with required written consent this has proven to be a challenge, but one that with the right planning and implementation can be overcome. This is an environment where the responsibility of timely data and quality data falls to the provider; therefore it is critical that the registry deploys sound strategies in these two areas.

OBJECTIVE:
Develop tools in the recruitment and retention process, that when applied in the field, create an environment, for the provider, that can sustain a registry.

METHOD:
Through a team oriented approach, techniques and strategies have been developed and used to ensure dynamic recruitment and retention practices.

RESULT:
By primarily using two indicators of growth, number of providers and growth in children, evidence shows that the registries have sustained continued growth and usage. Indicating providers are not only agreeing to participate but have also taken on the responsibilities necessary to sustain a registry. Additionally, there were some key unexpected developments that had a positive effect on both the recruitment and retention of providers.

CONCLUSION:
It is critical that registry efforts not stop with recruitment of providers. It is clear that in order to achieve the full benefits of immunization registries, providers need to use the registry in their day to day activity. In order for this to happen it is necessary to focus on tools that can help sustain the registry in the provider’s office.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
To provide examples of strategies used in registry recruitment and retention to achieve a successful registry.