The purpose and functions of immunization information systems within health care organizations

J. S. Sinn, M. A. Kronenburg and A. L. Morrow
Old Dominion University, Virginia Medical School, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters, Norfolk, USA.

Abroad coalition of public and private health care organizations advocate the development of computerized immunization information systems as a key national strategy for achieving and sustaining high immunization coverage levels. However, widespread adoption requires greater awareness of the purpose, functions, and value of an immunization information system within health care organizations. We propose that the purpose of an immunization information system is to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of immunization-related practices and identify 9 potential functions that accomplish this purpose through improving patient care and practice management. When implementing an immunization information system within a practice setting, health care providers must consider technological and organizational issues. Health care providers should also look beyond their particular practice setting and establish public-private partnerships to create a system that links immunization data from all health care providers.