How Immunization Coalitions Can Assist in Developing and Implementing Adolescent and Adult Vaccination Programs and Educational Opportunities

Background:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to:
• Identify problems with vaccine information access and misconceptions leading to Adolescent and Adult non-vaccination
• Identify approaches to increase coverage.
• Apply innovative strategies for developing and implementing Adolescent and Adult Vaccination Program and Educational opportunities.

Setting:
In 2003 the first Adult Immunization Schedule was introduced. In 2007 a separate Adolescent Immunization Schedule was introduced. Medical staff and patients find it hard to keep up to date on what and which vaccines are needed.

Population:
There exists a need for an established reputable resource to provide accurate and up to date information to these groups.

Project Description:
TAIC implemented an innovative strategy for assisting providers in developing in-house Adolescent and Adult Vaccination Programs and started an Education Out-Reach Program for the general population. These included Tool Kits for providers and PowerPoint Presentation for the public.
• Tool Kits gave offices access to resources needed to prepare, educate staff and implement immunization programs.
• PowerPoint Presentations for “Adolescent, Adult Immunizations” were developed for the Education Out-Reach Program.
• Participants will be provided a brief presentation of the TAIC Vaccine Tool Kits and PowerPoint Presentations Program.
• Following will be an interactive exchange of ideas and strategies on increasing Adolescent and Adult vaccination rates.

Results/Lessons Learned:
A concerted effort is needed to improve adolescent and adult vaccination rates. Healthcare professionals need reputable and accessible resources to assist them. The public needs these same resources to educate and help them understand the importance of vaccines. Immunization Coalitions can assist in this effort by providing source materials needed to prepare and implement in-house immunization programs in offices and clinics and assist with educational program for the general public on the importance of adolescent and adult immunizations. Coalitions can be instrumental in achieving higher vaccination rates in these populations.