Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to identify the changes made by provider sites as a result of on-site PA Immunization Education Programs (IEP) and follow-up.


Background:
The PA IEP presents 100 programs to 1,200 physicians and practice staff annually. IEPs are tailored to site needs. They are designed to have practices identify 1-3 changes they will make to address immunization rates and practices. Follow-up by IEP staff and a nurse practice manager reinforce changes and provide ongoing support.


Setting:
Private practices in Pennsylvania.


Population:
Physicians and the entire practice staff.


Project Description:
Teams of a physician/nurse practitioner, practice manager, and public health immunization nurse present a free, CME/CEU, 1.5 hour, interactive Immunization Update to PA practices. IEPs are geared towards a quality improvement process to identify specific changes, how they can be achieved, and measureable outcomes. Follow-up by IEP staff including a nurse practice manager and collaboration with PA and Philadelphia VFC programs provides support to implement and maintain changes.


Results/Lessons Learned:
In 2004, 20 (22%) of IEP sites stated they will use the PA Immunization Card, 32 (34%) will use the Refusal to Consent form, 19 (20%) will use the IAC Summary of Rules charts, 8 (8%) will use the AAP Vaccine Administration Record, 7 (7%) will use the Recommended Immunization Schedule, 13 (14%) will develop their reminder/recall system(s), 9 (9%) will immunize children with mild illnesses, 2 (2%) will increase the number of injections given at a visit, 12 (13%) will check immunization status at each visit, 38 (41%) will use forms in the handouts, and 47 (51%) will make some other change. (This large number in the category of “other” resulted in developing additional options for responses for the 2005 follow-up.) Fifty-seven (61%) sites said the IEP improved staff skills.