Using immunization registry reminder-recall reports to improve CASA audit results

BACKGROUND: Unless providers utilize the tools available within an immunization registry- they may never fully realize the benefits of registry participation. Offices taking a passive approach to the registry may only enter data as patients are seen. If the registry mails reminder postcards for providers- staff may discontinue any additional routine immunization follow-up. The Riverside County (California) Department of Public Health Family Care Centers (FCCs) did not fully utilize the tools available within the VaxTrack Registry- and this contributed to their low CASA audit results. OBJECTIVE: To illustrate how proactive use of immunization registry tools can help improve CASA audit results. METHOD: The Clinic Referrals report lists demographic and vaccine information for children 3 years and younger to whom a reminder/recall postcard is sent. Providers who use the report can improve up-to-date rates by contacting parents whose children need immunizations and scheduling appointments. The report also allows providers to identify any children who have moved or gone elsewhere- and thus need to be excluded from future CASA audits. Although the FCCs were receiving this report- it was never used. After a second year of unsatisfactory CASA results- the registry components of the corrective action plan included reinforcing the policy and procedure for the Clinic Referrals report. VaxTrack staff also used education- encouragement and friendly competition to effect changes in clinic operations. RESULT: Seven of nine FCCs met or exceeded the improvement goals set for them. Three of the FCCs had dramatic improvements- increasing their up-to-date rates from 31.5%- 27.2% and 36.4% to 81.0%- 71.7%- and 72.7%- respectively. CONCLUSION: Taking a proactive approach to using an immunization registry by utilizing available tools helps providers realize the benefits of registry participation by decreasing missed opportunities and improving immunization coverage rates. LEARNING OBJECTIVES: Participants will describe how proactive use of registry tools can improve CASA audit results.