Policy on the development of immunization of tracking systems. American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Practice and Ambulatory Medicine.

The American Academy of Pediatrics in its role as advocate for children supports public and private cooperation in the development of immunization tracking systems (ITSs) insofar as they benefit children. All ITSs as they are developed:

• Should prospectively articulate their goals and desired outcomes, including documenting immunization status and the mechanics of immunization, increasing rates of immunization, decreasing cost of immunization, and facilitating immunization opportunities;

• Must accurately document each child's current immunization status;

• Must preserve children's and their health care provider's right to confidentiality;

• Should ensure that data will be available to health care providers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, so that health care providers can take advantage of all opportunities to immunize;

• Should ensure that data will not be used for sanctions against health care providers;

• Must ensure that data input and access mechanisms enable providers to su