Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to understand the benefits integration of electronic immunization records will bring to Web-based patient portals.


Background:
In 2003 Marshfield Clinic implemented a patient portal, which included as one of the features, online patient access to immunization information. The portal was piloted to a subset of patients. Survey results of patients involved in the pilot group indicated patients found it valuable to be able to access immunization records for both themselves as well as their minor biological and/or adopted children. At the completion of the pilot, Clinic leadership decided to hold off on larger implementation of the portal, as it was felt that the features offered at that time were not sticky enough to warrant further development.


Setting:
Marshfield Clinic, one of the largest private multi-speciality group practices in the United States, offers their patient portal, My Marshfield Clinic, to its patients.


Population:
Patients of Marshfield Clinic.


Project Description:
Integrating appropriate components of Marshfield Clinic's robust electronic medical record has provided an efficient and effective venue to enhance the patient/provider relationship to the extent we are able to impact the continuity of care provided to patients. Through the extension of My Marshfield Clinic, patients are empowered to take an active role in their health care.


Results/Lessons Learned:
It was the right decision to halt further development of the initial patient portal in 2003, as patients weren't ready for this level of access. Two years out from the initial development patients are demanding this level of access to their health information. Specifically, with regard to immunizations we not only provide patients with access to view their immunization record but also allow them to send a secure message to the HIM Department if they have additional immunization dates their provider was unaware of. This also provides another avenue for intervention.