BACKGROUND:
With funding provided by the All Kids Count Connections Project, we developed a Palm-based tool as an alternative data collection strategy for private provider sites. Based on a cooperative development effort with 6 registry projects, we completed a written design, developed the software, and assisted with its deployment at a number of participating sites. The product allows users to download their clinic’s patient list from a registry and pre-populate the PDA. Clinical users then select children, view their immunization histories and recommendations, and enter both new immunizations and additional history. Data is uploaded back to the registry, in HL7 format, for incorporation into the database.

OBJECTIVE:
To understand how a “generic” PDA product could be cooperatively developed to accommodate the needs of a diverse set of projects with a minimum of customization.

METHOD:
A committee met regularly via conference calls through the design process and was guided through the development of specifications. Iterative prototypes were available for review, and were demonstrated to clinical sites for feedback and modification. Wherever possible, national standards such HL7 were used. Deployment assistance was available. A project website was used to post and communicate all project progress and deliverables.

RESULT:
The software was made available for use with several participating registries in the Fall of 2003. The Utah and Rhode Island immunization registries are working to introduce the software to select providers in 2004.

CONCLUSION:
Cooperative development is possible for software projects with significant leverage of resources.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Understanding new alternatives for immunization data entry; examining application of national standards to public health software projects.