Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of this presentation participants will be able to:
1. Identify steps state policy makers can use to develop criteria for selecting antigens (for vaccine preventable diseases) for inclusion in school entry immunization rules.
2. List criteria to determine which antigens should be required for school entry.
3. Outline a process to use when considering new antigens for inclusion in rule.


Background:
Many new vaccines are expected to be available over the next few years. A number of these will end up on the ACIP Recommended Childhood and Adolescent Immunization Schedule. The Washington State Board of Health realized it would face complex decisions about which vaccines to include in the child care/school immunization rule. The Board understood the need to consider factors other than those considered by the ACIP to address the unique needs of our state. The Board believed that approaching this decision using rational criteria was the best way to protect children and the community at large while balancing the interests of parents and families. So an Immunization Advisory Committee (IAC) was established to recommend criteria to the Board. It included immunization stakeholders from many fields. Many valuable lessons were learned which may be of benefit to other state policy makers.

Setting:
Policy making settings: legislative committees, boards, advisory groups.

Population:
Children who attend school and/or child care.

Project Description:
(1) Present a brief overview of: an ethical framework, results of a national survey, & 2 models. (2) Break into small groups to: discuss & identify criteria relevant to their own state; and identify key implementation process issues. (3) Reconvene to learn about Washington's experience.

Results/Lessons Learned:
Explore these policy issues to: (1) become more intentional and articulate about why certain vaccines are required & (2) understand the implications of these decisions.