Empowering Our Providers: NCIR and AFIX

Background: 

The North Carolina Immunization Program (NCIP) began to roll out the statewide North Carolina Immunization Registry (NCIR) in 2006.   Initial efforts focused on getting providers on the registry quickly.  As a result, training focused on the data entry of client and immunization information and inventory management.  Time constraints did not allow for training on the NCIR assessment tools. Although instructions on how to utilize these tools are available in the user manual, it became apparent that most providers were not utilizing these tools effectively.  A primary goal of NCIP is to raise coverage rates among children throughout the state.  In addition to guidance provided by NCIP it is up to providers to be aware of the immunization status of their patients and respond proactively to ensure all children achieve up-to-date (UTD) status.  To help meet this goal NCIP developed training modules incorporating the NCIR with AFIX to help empower providers to obtain high coverage rates.

Setting:  Fifty-nine private provider offices in North Carolina

Population:  Children ages 0-35 months receiving immunizations at participating providers

Project Description:  Provider staff are provided with training enabling them to utilize the assessment tools within the NCIR to track the coverage rates and UTD status of children seen at their practice.  A series on hands-on learning exercises teaches participants to: 1) learn to run NCIR assessment reports to obtain the real-time immunization coverage status of their patients; 2) learn to utilize the reminder/recall function to enable the providers to schedule necessary appointments with patients due for immunizations.

Results/Lessons Learned:  The intensive training showed positive results.  Data show that providers began using the tools and overall coverage rates increased. The feedback from providers stated that the training was helpful and effective. The training module will be incorporated into future NCIR rollout efforts among new providers as well as provided during regional educational workshops and required AFIX visits.