KEYWORDS:
registries, wireless, networking, Internet

BACKGROUND:
As immunization registries mature, users will require connectivity to the Internet in more far-flung locations, and under a wider variety of circumstances. The needs of bio-terrorism preparedness and response will add additional pressure for registries to be available "anytime, anywhere." Requirements for alternative networking options in the wake of 9/11 have increased as more jurisdictions plan seriously for disaster preparedness.

OBJECTIVE:
To discuss the need, strategies, and options for providing access to immunization registries (or similar systems) via wireless, satellite, or situations of intermittent network connectivity.

METHOD:
Network connectivity is a changing landscape and evolving marketplace for products and services. An up-to-date survey of the marketplace will be provided and discussed. Examples will be provided from currently-deployed registries around the country.

RESULT:
Several of these strategies are already in use around the country, and other registries can learn from these pioneering efforts.

CONCLUSION:
Registries can adopt one or more of these technologies, often "out of the box" but occasionally with system modification, to provide additional options for system access.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
To understand how alternative network strategies can extend the reach of an existing registry project.