BACKGROUND:
Through community outreach, Bureau of Immunization's Program Support Unit helps WIC sites document immunization history, as well as assess and improve immunization coverage rates among their registrants. Community outreach includes education about immunization schedules, improved documentation and regular use of New York Citywide Immunization Registry (CIR).

OBJECTIVE:
To demonstrate how community outreach, including use of an immunization registry can improve accurate assessment of UTD status, referral for needed immunizations and increase coverage levels among a WIC population.

METHOD:
In 2004, the Program Support Unit identified 12 WIC sites located in PON areas in New York City. CASA reviews were conducted for one hundred (100) 19-35 month old clients at each of those sites. Coverage rates for Markers (4 DTaP, 3 Hep B and 1 MMR) were calculated using data collected at the WIC sites, plus additional data found in the CIR. The volume of requests to CIR for immunization records was analyzed for each site. In addition, analysis of coverage by zip code of child's residence was done to identify areas most in need.

RESULT:
Analysis of 7 of the 12 sites showed that UTD rates as calculated by WIC data only, averaged 75% (ranging from 52 to 85%). When the CIR data were added, the UTD rate increased by 7% to 82% (ranging from 67 to 90%). Results for all 12 sites will be presented. Results of additional analyses will also be presented.

CONCLUSION:
Community outreach, which includes use of an immunization registry data helps improve coverage rates.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
To understand how extended community outreach to WIC sites in PON areas and site training including use of an immunization registry help increase immunization coverage rates.