BACKGROUND:
In 2000, national data indicated a decrease in childhood immunization rates among Asian Americans, although rates were rising for all other groups. In 2001, the Asian Health Coalition of Illinois (AHCI) received a planning grant from the American Academy of Pediatrics’ CATCH (Community Access To Child Health) Program, to identify barriers and recommendations.

OBJECTIVE:
The objectives of this study were to identify barriers to immunization among Asian American communities in Chicago, and to identify recommendations for service delivery.

METHOD:
Focus groups were conducted in six Asian American communities (Cambodian, Chinese, Korean, Laotian, South Asian, Vietnamese). An Advisory Committee was convened to help design the study, questionnaire, consent forms, and focus group materials. Focus groups were conducted by trained bilingual, bicultural moderators. The proceedings were audiotaped and the tapes were transcribed. Data subsequently were analyzed.

RESULT:
The following were identified as barriers: 1) Cost; 2) Language barriers; 3) Difficulty understanding information and records; 4) Difficulty in making and getting to appointments; and 5) Difficulty in selecting a provider.

CONCLUSION:
The following recommendations were made: 1) Increase access to immunization services, including mobile services; 2) Decrease language barriers; 3) Provide effective immunization education to limited English proficient Asian Americans; and 4) Offer community education on provider choice.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
· Discuss the design of research collaborations with community organizations
· Identify barriers to childhood immunization experienced by Asian Americans
· Identify recommendations for service delivery