BACKGROUND:
The Wisconsin and Minnesota immunization programs collectively distribute vaccine to almost 1500 VFC providers. Both states use the Wisconsin immunization registry application. Vaccine Providers use the registry for tracking VFC eligibility, verifying immunizations dates and Immunization forecasting. In Wisconsin, new order entry and processing screens were developed along with packing and shipping label reports. The central VFC vaccine is entered into WIR by the immunization program, which then allows for the processing of vaccine requests from it.

OBJECTIVE:
· To discuss the challenges in consistently having providers record VFC eligibility in the registry, so that annual reports can be generated at the state level.
· To discuss how linking with Medicaid data supports VFC eligibility tracking.
· To discuss how a registry can alert providers to inventory that is running low or due to expire, and to automate the ordering of a new shipment.
· To discuss how VFC and vaccine accountability can improve through provider use of the registry.
· To discuss CDC's vision for how VACMAN and registries can interface.

METHOD:
Presentation, discussion with participants

RESULT:
While challenges exist for consistent tracking of VFC eligibility and vaccine ordering through a registry, effective solutions have been developed that improve accountability, provide an audit trail, prevent duplicate data entry (and so reduce the potential for errors), and overall efficiency. In Wisconsin, providers no longer need to enter lot numbers along with vaccine type, manufacturer, expiration dates, dose magnitude and dose quantities—they simply accept the processed order from the central VFC program.

CONCLUSION:
A VFC program can enhance provider accountability and timely ordering through the use of a full-featured registry.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
· How VFC and accountability can be improved and made more efficient through the use of a registry.
· The benefits of having electronic vaccine order processing.