Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
1. By the end of the presentation participants will be able to identify easy to use ways to update and keep their programs current in the face of rapidly changing technologies.
2. By the end of the presentation participants will be able to apply those technologies identified without having to resort to expensive and specialized IT solutions.



Background:
Pennsylvania has been using a paper-based system for Perinatal Hepatitis B since the program's inception in April 1997. There has been the addition of a spreadsheet and a database to track the case progress and updates to the original paper records.


Setting:
n/a


Population:
To improve immunization rates and program completion rates among children of Hepatitis B mothers by decreasing delays in needs identification, utilizing electronic data transfer and maintenance, instituting a paperless system or a legibly printed data form. Achieving more complete data entry, maintaining familiarity of current paper forms, eliminate or ameliorate current problems with system.


Project Description:
A review of available electronic forms software was conducted. Scansoft Omniform 5.0 was chosen as the product to fit the needs of the project. An electronic version of the current form was created. The existing database was then imported into the electronic form and the data verified. Going forward the electronic forms data will continue to be used along with existing forms, spreadsheet, and database to confirm data integrity. Allowing field staff trials and familiarization with the paperless procedures.


Results/Lessons Learned:
The Perinatal Hepatitis B program has decreased staff time to verify case status and increased the number of cases kept current within the program. The use of available off the shelf electronic forms management software has improved program efficiency and decreased program backlog. Solving some or all of the existing issues with the current program.