Learning Objectives for this Presentation:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to identify critical factors affecting the research and approval of vaccines, the funding and delivery of vaccines to children, adolescents and adults, and the critical importance of maintaining public acceptance of vaccines.
Participants will gain a better understanding of how public policy affects many facets of the nation's vaccine delivery system and the role they can play in shaping policies.

Background:
Many factors have a major impact on the nation's vaccine delivery systems. Public health partners are able conduct their daily missions to improve the health and well-being of our nation's citizens because of the diligence of scientists who, throughout history, have made it their quest to research diseases and discover new and improved vaccines. But, without confidence in our nation's vaccine supply and safety, fewer and fewer researchers are willing to invest their time in vaccines. Public acceptance remains at the core of our nation's vaccine delivery system. Without widespread support for immunization, we are challenged at every level to deliver life-saving vaccines. Immunization partners play a vital role in shaping the policies that govern vaccine delivery. This presentation seeks to enlighten participants about several newly formed partnerships whose missions are to engage partners in activities that will strengthen our nation's vaccine delivery and communication systems.

Setting:
National coalitions, grass roots partners

Population:
Vaccine recipients and providers in both the public and private sectors, vaccine support groups, other partners

Project Description:
Members of the following coalitions will provide details regarding their core mission and activities. National Influenza Vaccine Summit, Adult Vaccine Policy Coalition, Parents for Immunization, 317 Coalition, and National Viral Hepatitis Roundtable.


Results/Lessons Learned:
By forging strong partnerships, groups that support vaccination efforts can reach the goal of insuring that all those who seek timely immunization have access without financial, logistical, or other barriers.