Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
Understand how the use of the Wisconsin Immunization Registry (WIR) has positively impacted Aurora's childhood immunization rates.
Learn how the WIR has been integrated into the vaccine administration workflow.
Understand and apply interventions to increase childhood immunization rates relevant to the attendee.



Background:
The National Healthy People 2010 goal is to have 90% of all children complete their recommended series of immunizations by 24 months of age. Data from the year 2000 revealed Wisconsin is at 74.2% Aurora Health Care has partnered with the State of Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services (DHFS) and local health departments in the Aurora service area, to increase the rate of childhood immunizations through the use of WIR.


Setting:
Aurora Health Care is a not-for-profit integrated health care delivery system servicing 75 communities in 20 counties of Eastern Wisconsin via its 14 hospitals, 120 clinics, and 136 community pharmacies. Currently, the Childhood Immunization Initiative is focused within the clinic settings.


Population:
Children up to 24 months of age.


Project Description:
Aurora Health Care has mandated organization-wide use of the Wisconsin Immunization Registry, a web-based database developed by the State of Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services (DHFS) to increase our childhood immunization rates.


Results/Lessons Learned:
1. From the inception of this initiative, January, 2003 through September, 2005 our results have increased from 58% to 87%.
2.Establishing a strong communication process with the Wisconsin DHFS and with each of our clinics was a major goal of the childhood immunization initiative. Issues raised throughout the process were addressed by inviting local public health and DHFS representatives to all organization-wide childhood immunization meetings.
3. Utilization of WIR reports and follow-up was more efficient once an electronic version was insituted.
4. Face-to-face meetings with clinic WIR administrators has proven to be effective.
5. Ongoing e-mail communication to WIR administrators has been effective.