BACKGROUND:
The state of Louisiana requires schools to submit annual immunization data reports. Each school submits paper reports that include immunization detail for each kindergartner, first grader and new enterer. As the Louisiana Immunization Network for Kids Statewide (LINKS) continues to grow, the health department recognized an opportunity to streamline reporting by collecting the data through the registry.

OBJECTIVE:
1.) Describe the original process for collecting school data
2.) Identify considerations and potential barriers with new process
3.) Describe the process and benefits of using registry to collect data
4.) Describe the data validation method

METHOD:
Review of reporting requirements. Development and testing of school reporting and data collection functionality. Validation and implementation of the functionality. Review and evaluation of data.

RESULT:
Using the registry to collect school immunization data promotes efficient data collection and reduces the burden of collating and analyzing the data at the state level. The new process provides an easier way to report required data and allows school nurses to view and edit records in the registry.

CONCLUSION:
School immunization reporting through the registry streamlines the overwhelming process of annual immunization reporting for both schools and the state health department. Allowing school nurses to enter data directly into the registry adds value for all key stakeholders – patients, parents, providers, and schools by providing a more complete immunization record.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Workshop attendees will learn how the registry was modified to collect annual school immunization data reports and to allow school nurses to enter immunization data directly into registry. This workshop will also include a discussion about the measures taken to ensure that quality data is entered. Process benefits and lessons learned will also be presented.