Effective Vaccine Management (EVM) was launched in 2009. Since then many countries have undertaken EVM assessments, with the objective of improving their immunization supply chain and vaccine management practices. It is fair to take a moment and consider the impact of EVM. So…. I asked ChatGPT about that and found the response quite encouraging.
My question: Is there a correlation between EVM score (Effective Vaccine Management) and immunization coverage in countries?
ChatGPT Response (not edited in any way):
Yes, there is generally a positive correlation between Effective Vaccine Management (EVM) scores and immunization coverage in countries. Effective Vaccine Management refers to the processes and systems in place to ensure the quality, safety, and availability of vaccines from the manufacturer to the point of administration.
Here are several reasons why a higher EVM score tends to be associated with better immunization coverage:
1. Supply Chain Efficiency: A high EVM score indicates a well-functioning vaccine supply chain, which ensures that vaccines reach their intended recipients in a timely manner. Efficient supply chains reduce the likelihood of stockouts and ensure a steady supply of vaccines, which in turn facilitates higher immunization coverage.
2. Cold Chain Management: Proper management of the cold chain is crucial for maintaining the potency and efficacy of vaccines. Countries with higher EVM scores are more likely to have robust cold chain systems in place, which minimize the risk of vaccine wastage due to exposure to inappropriate temperatures. This reliability encourages healthcare providers to administer vaccines confidently, thus supporting higher immunization coverage.
3. Data Monitoring and Reporting: EVM includes components related to data monitoring, surveillance, and reporting systems. Countries with stronger EVM scores tend to have more accurate and timely data on vaccine coverage rates and vaccine-preventable diseases. This allows health authorities to identify gaps in coverage and implement targeted interventions to improve immunization rates.
4. Training and Capacity Building: Effective vaccine management involves training healthcare workers and building their capacity to handle and administer vaccines properly. Countries with higher EVM scores invest in ongoing training and professional development for healthcare staff, which can improve vaccination practices and ultimately contribute to higher immunization coverage.
5. Public Trust and Confidence: A well-functioning vaccine management system instils public trust and confidence in immunization programs. When people have faith in the safety, efficacy, and accessibility of vaccines, they are more likely to seek vaccination for themselves and their children, leading to higher immunization coverage rates.
While a correlation between EVM scores and immunization coverage is generally observed, it's important to recognize that other factors, such as healthcare infrastructure, funding, political commitment, and cultural beliefs, also influence immunization rates. Therefore, while EVM is an important component, a comprehensive approach addressing multiple factors is necessary to achieve and sustain high immunization coverage rates.
----- end of ChatGPT response -----
Thanks Bastiaan for sharing this interesting AI response. Although the lack of citations and supiciously generic terms employed rasie the usual red flags, it is hard to argue with the key point it has so eloquently regurgitated: that there is "generally a positive correlation between EVM scores and immunization coverage in countries". Interestingly, when I tried the exact same search myself, I got a slightly different response with an ever stronger upfront proviso:
"While there may be an indirect correlation between EVM score and immunization coverage, it's important to note that EVM primarily assesses the efficiency and effectiveness of vaccine management systems, rather than directly measuring immunization coverage. [...] The relationship [...] can be multifaceted and influenced by various factors".
It makes me think of a question like "is a footbal team with the best goalkeeper in the league more likely to win the league?" to which the answer might just as well be "probably but..."
The EVM Global Heat-map gives an interesting overview of all 59 EVM assessments so far conducted, and if you use some of the filters on the left you can see the differences in scores between different WHO/UNICEF Regions and supply chain levels. The EVM Global Heat-map is available to everyone on the EVM website here:
https://evm2.who.int/Global/Heatmap
I was recently looking at the difference between EVM scores for WHO priority contries (# zero-dose kids) and the global average, and was surprised at what I found. The most striking thing was that many of the criteria/category scores for priority countries were above the global average, apart from in one or two. But these are initial observations only and "more research is needed" here... hopefully such analysis will be conducted soon.
- Page :
- 1