BACKGROUND:
Imperial County Public Health Department (ICPHD) is currently developing an integrated, web-based information management system that allows for the transfer of real time information, and rapid accessibility of client records. The system integrates various components, including an immunization registry, medication/vaccine inventory, tuberculosis control, child health disability, and laboratory. The system also consists of a time-study module and a community-access program module, while communicable disease reports, HIV/AIDS and vital records modules are currently under development. In addition, schools have access to a child's California School Immunization Record.

OBJECTIVE:
The integrated information management system (IIMS) incorporates various components of disease prevention, reporting, testing, and control into a system that provides easy access to users. Information captured in the IIMS also helps the county identify specific local health needs. The system ensures confidentiality by restricting access to client identification/history, and other personal information.

METHOD:
The ICPHD created an IIMS, starting with an immunization registry and expanding the system to incorporate other aspects of client medical information. Various hands-on trainings were provided before implementation of the various modules and system enhancements were made. The system was developed using information collected through focus group and key-informant interviews with providers and staff, peer consultation visits, and work groups. Collecting continuous feedback from users and frequent trainings increased the system's functionality and flexibility for further enhancements.

RESULT:
The system has successfully accomplished its objective of information exchange between the Public Health Department, local health-care providers, hospitals, schools, and other health care agencies.

CONCLUSION:
The IIMS is an example of an effective means of providing access to client information in a way that does not compromise client confidentiality. The system has proven to be effective in avoiding duplicate vaccinations, preventing vaccine preventable diseases, reduce missed opportunities, and easy replacement of lost records. The integration of information facilitates management of client services, including disease control and prevention.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
An IIMS can incorporate various aspects of client information to provide a valuable tool not only for Public Health, but a viable system for exchanging information with healthcare providers and schools, and improve the quality of healthcare in a local community.