BACKGROUND:
Baby Tracks began in 1994 to increase immunization rates for 0-2 year olds after the Minnesota Department of Health's (MDH) Retrospective Survey (1992-1993) revealed that only 62% of two-year olds in Hennepin County and 47% in Minneapolis were completely immunized.

OBJECTIVE:
To describe how the Baby Tracks program uses data and manages resources to most effectively increase immunization rates.

METHOD:
Using data collected in three Retrospective Kindergarten Surveys conducted by the Minnesota Department of Health, immunization rates for two-year-olds are periodically analyzed by zip code within Hennepin County to determine our enrollment area. Currently, twenty-three zip codes with the lowest immunization rates, as well as enrollees in WIC and EPSDT, are enrolled in the program. This allows us to target scarce resources toward identified needs rather than broadly tracking babies county-wide. Once enrolled, participants are sent postcard reminders when shots are due. On an ongoing basis, they are classified into two categories distinguished by up-to-date status. Babies who fall behind on immunizations (averages 7%) are considered higher risk and receive additional assistance including help making appointments, interpreters and more. Once again, resources are directed to those most in need.

RESULT:
At the close of 2004 and with more than 9,700 babies currently in the program, 19 – 24-month old participants had an overall immunization rate of 93%.

CONCLUSION:
To most effectively and efficiently increase immunization rates for 0-2 year olds, data driven targeting, along with simple methods and further targeting within the program, has proven consistently successful over a ten year period.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES:
Describe effective methods for managing resources that serve high risk populations and increase immunization rates.