Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to:

1. Describe a Public Health Immunization program in an Indian community.
2. Identify barriers and discuss solutions to increase immunization rates.
3. Identify how prevention strategies and immunization efforts can be duplicated in other areas.



Background:
The Oklahoma City Indian Clinic (OKCIC) provides urban Indians with ambulatory healthcare in the Oklahoma City area. Providing health care to the Native American people in Oklahoma City (OKC) is essential to elevating the health of all citizens in the OKC area regardless of ethnic background.
One area of Public Health concern that is always considered to be a relevant issue is immunizations and the prevention of vaccine preventable illnesses. Research indicates that low immunization rates are a direct cause when outbreaks of these illnesses occur.
Children are especially susceptible to illnesses that society thinks are no longer in existence, such as, polio, measles, and diptheria. In order to improve immunizations in a large population, a plan of action must be made.



Setting:
Ambulatory healthcare facility. Immunizations are provided at daycares, schools, homes, and health fairs in the community as well as in the Clinic.


Population:
Indians of the Oklahoma City area regardless of tribal affiliation. 2371 children ages zero to six were targeted with this outreach program.


Project Description:
A program was established to provide immunizations to children ages 0-6 who were “past due” on immunizations. Accommodations were made to make a mobile immunization van and a team of nurses was hired to update our registry and track these children for two years.


Results/Lessons Learned:
Immunization rates increased from 31.5% to 81.4% over the first year. An accurate database is now in existence and these children's immunizations are being continuously monitored.