Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to learn about creating a task force and using creative strategies to improve immunization rates.


Background:
After reviewing Indiana's poor results from the 2004 U.S. National Immunization Survey (NIS) data, an Immunization Program Task Force was formed with the purpose of developing a plan to improve the immunization rates of 2-year old children in Indiana. Compared to 1999, there has been some improvement in coverage rates, but Indiana rates remain in the lowest half of states. The Task Force involved staff members of the Immunization Program and was charged with the responsibility of developing a plan to improve coverage rates across the state.


Setting:
ISDH


Population:
ISDH


Project Description:
Supervisors and key employees met to discuss strategy and formed 3 committees: Data Collection, Education, and Incentives. These committees met to exchange ideas, formulate action plans, and determine the possible impact on immunization rates. The Task Force combined committee plans into one cohesive policy plan for review by ISDH administration.


Results/Lessons Learned:
An action plan to improve statewide immunization coverage rates was created within 3 months. Many ideas were presented and will be utilized, including: (1) Promoting vaccinations in the ER, at hospital outpatient sites, and influenza clinics, (2) Establishing provider award criteria based on trends rather than a single CASA score, and (3) Improving CASA visits by obtaining more provider involvement. The continued promotion of the statewide immunization registry and the VFC program is also important. Educating non-healthcare providers (i.e. WIC, TANF, childcare centers, minority groups) is another needed step.