Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation participants will know what and why data quality reviews are important and how to schedule them as a part of ongoing activities.


Background:
Simple data entry errors as well as immunization practice issues can be revealed through data queries of the entire database registry on a regular and periodic basis. Prioritizing data quality review can be challenging, especially when requests for data for state or federal reports, health plan HEDIS matching, or other data queries can compete with staff time.


Setting:
Regional or state immunization programs/registries


Population:
Immunization and registry staff, health care providers, new and current registry users


Project Description:
Over the last year, the SDIR has developed and implemented a data quality plan. Data entry issues such as dates of birth or shots that are out of range, and vaccines given to children before the recommended date such as PPV doses for children under 2 years of age, PCV7 given after age 5, more than 3 doses of MMR, Hib given above age 5, Varicella dose given before 12 months of age and/or 1995, and Hep A given before 1995 were selected and results analyzed. Registry liaisons presented this information to providers using the registry, along with additional information gleaned from other regularly scheduled “auto-batch” reports.


Results/Lessons Learned:
Reviewing the registry data for completeness is important, but looking for the quality of the data is even more crucial. Identifying the medical accuracy of immunization practices by running reports from the registry is an efficient method for quality assurance review activities and can quickly point out problem areas to focus on for quality improvement plans.