Physician impressions of using text message technology to increase vaccination compliance.

INTRODUCTION: Immunization schedules are complicated and difficult for parents to remember. Parents are willing to receive text message reminders. However- it is unknown whether physicians are willing to implement such a system. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a text messaging reminder system from the physician's perspective. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Surveys were distributed in the winter of 2009-2010 by e-mail- facsimile- and telephone interview to 149 family physicians and pediatricians who provide immunizations in Sedgwick County- Kansas. RESULTS: A 69% response rate was achieved. Nearly all (92%) respondents reported that they currently communicate information about immunization schedules to parents using traditional methods such as verbal reminders or appointment cards/ however- none (0%) currently use text or email to generate reminders to parents. Even when asked to assume they had all of the necessary resources- almost one-third (31%) reported that they were very unwilling" or "unwilling" to use a general text-messaging program 43% were "neutral" or