Washington VTrckS ExIS Integration: Partnership and Implementation

Background: Washington provider vaccine orders have been submitted via CHILD Profile Immunization Information System (IIS) since 2008. 90% of Washington providers are enrolled in the registry. The registry is used for order processing and supports vaccine quality assurance processes and business needs. An interface with VACMAN application was used for order processing. The CDC initiated the development of VTrckS to enhance the management of the multi-billion dollar vaccine program and improve vaccine accountability and quality assurance.  As a pilot site, Washington partnered with Scientific Technologies Corporation (STC) and the CDC VTrckS team to assure successful integration of Washington’s registry and model registry integration with VTrckS nationally.

Setting: United States and Washington State

Population: Federal and state informatics and immunization programs, Washington State providers

Project Description: Washington participated on the VTrckS Grantee Advisory Committee and several VTrckS workgroups during the planning of the VTrckS rollout.  Recommendations were made, specifications finalized, data updated and testing completed through close work with other pilot sites, the CDC VTrckS team, and CDC staff. Washington participated in pilot and planning activities in-person, via web-cast and e-mail. Alignment between the registry and VTrckS was promoted through active feedback. In close partnership with STC necessary changes were implemented in Washington’s registry to incorporate new functionality, facilitate testing and successfully implement VTrckS while leveraging the robust, mature IIS.

Results/Lessons Learned: Early, active participation improved the process, eased transition and created an opportunity to provide on-going input regarding business practices and impacts.  Active dialogue between grantees and CDC during the planning and training phases was important and lead to some win/wins.  Specific grantee IIS needs and recommendations were included in VTrckS, facilitating a smooth interface between the registry and VTrckS. Business requirements were met and integration was successful because of the close relationship between the Program and the IIS vendor.