BACKGROUND:
In the state of Georgia, the coverage rate for influenza and pneumococcal vaccination of adults aged 65 and older is below the national average. The Georgia Immunization Program (GIP) was interested in improving adult immunization practices.

OBJECTIVE:
To determine the feasibility of (1) identifying and recruiting adult immunization providers for practice-based assessment, (2) assessing individual clinics’ adult immunization rates using Adult Clinical Assessment Software Application (ACASA), (3) identifying challenges faced by adult immunization providers and (4) educating providers on strategies to improve their practices.

METHOD:
A protocol for immunization assessment was developed and clinics were identified through preexisting relationships with healthcare providers or through partner organizations. Immunization rates for influenza, pneumococcal (PPV)and tetanus and diphtheria (Td) were assessed using ACASA for adults 65 and older. Approximately 30 randomly selected records were examined at each clinic. After the assessment, a feedback session was held with the office manager to share the clinic’s coverage data, their successful methods, and to identify specific areas of improvement. Information packets with education and documentation materials were shared. The clinic staff completed a survey about the usefulness of the coverage data and informational materials, and to predict plans to improve immunization coverage.

RESULT:
Seven family physician clinics were recruited and assessed using ACASA. Immunization rates for influenza and PPV were much lower than BRFSS data. Assessments took an average of 8.15 minutes per record. Coverage data and educational materials were well received by the clinic managers at the feedback sessions. Major challenges included not having a listing of adult providers in the area and technical issues with using ACASA.

CONCLUSION:
Adult assessment using ACASA is a feasible approach for Georgia and can be an opportunity to educate office staff on strategies that can improve a clinic’s immunization practices.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
To identify challenges faced when starting an adult immunization assessment program.