Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to identify issues involved in advocating for support of the California Statewide Immunization Information System, and to assess the effectiveness of various efforts at both the local and state levels.



Background:
California currently has nine regional immunization registry systems, which do not interface. The integration of these disparate systems will require funding support not currently in the State budget. The California Coalition for Childhood Immunization (C3I) spearheaded a successful effort to secure funding to integrate the statewide system and is sponsoring legislation to provide sustainable funding.



Setting:
The California Coalition for Childhood Immunization (C3I), the statewide coordinating organization for local immunization coalitions in California.



Population:
Immunization registry systems throughout California; California counties; organizations involved in advocacy to improve immunization coverage in the state.


Project Description:
C3I strategic planning identified the need for a comprehensive funding plan to create a statewide immunization registry for California.. Resources were identified and an advocacy plan developed. The coalition's Advocacy Committee, with support from local coalitions and other member organizations, pursued State and foundation funding options and educated potential funders on the value of a fully integrated California Statewide Immunization Information System (SIIS).



Results/Lessons Learned:
In October, 2005 the First Five California Commission approved $3,600,000 to support the integration of regional registries and other large immunization databases within the state by 2008. The coordination of effective advocacy efforts and utilization of established partnerships by the statewide coalition were crucial in achieving this important step toward a permanent state immunization information system for the most populous state in the Union.