title: A parent-driven, computer-based vaccine information system: addressing variability in information needs for the varicella vaccine.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To determine the variability of parental interest in the depth of detail provided regarding vaccine information.
  
  
  METHODS
  We performed a cross-sectional, observational study in a primary care pediatric practice from September 1 to September 30, 1995. We provided each participant an opportunity to use a self-directed, computer-based information system using the varicella vaccine as a prototype. The system covered 7 topics regarding the vaccine and offered 5 stages of information, ranging from general, indisputable information at stage 1 to less common, potentially unresolved details at stage 5. Parents viewed stage 1 information for each topic. Parents would then choose to either view more stages or view the next topic.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Of 130 parents visiting the pediatric practice, 112 (86%) agreed to participate. We found substantial variability in the amount of information sought. Some parents stopped with stage 1 information (15%-45%, depending on the topic), whereas others indicated they would seek more information beyond the fifth stage (2%-14%). Overall, parents reported high satisfaction with the system.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Quantifiable variability exists in parents' requirements for vaccine information, and our information system addresses this issue.
authors.affiliation: Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minn 55905, USA.
authors.forename: Subha V
authors.initials: SV
authors.lastname: Raman
authors.forename: Robert M
authors.initials: RM
authors.lastname: Jacobson
authors.forename: Gregory A
authors.initials: GA
authors.lastname: Poland
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D019433:Chickenpox Vaccine; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction; D003258:Consumer Behavior; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006266:Health Education; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007256:Information Systems; D008297:Male; D020380:Needs Assessment; D010290:Parents / Q000193:education* / Q000523:psychology*; D014611:Vaccination
chemical_list: D019433:Chickenpox Vaccine