title: Improving pediatric practice immunization rates through distance-based quality improvement: a feasibility trial from PROS.
abstract: The feasibility and effectiveness of a distance-based quality improvement model were examined in a cohort of Pediatric Research in Office Settings (PROS) practices, with the goal of improving immunization rates and practitioner behaviors and attitudes. Of an initially assessed 82 practices, 29 with baseline rates of < or =88% for children 8 to 15 months of age were randomized into year-long paper-based education or distance-based quality improvement intervention groups. Outcomes were utility/helpfulness of quality improvement modalities, immunization rate change, and behavior/attitude change. Quality improvement participants attended approximately 75% of monthly conference calls but used the quality improvement Listserv and Web site infrequently (mean 1.09 and 0.92 uses, respectively). Helpfulness ratings of quality improvement modalities mirrored usage. Analyses revealed a 4.9% increase in quality improvement group immunization rates (P = .061), a 0.8% education group increase (P = .752), and a 4.1% difference between groups (P = .261). More quality improvement practices adopted systems identifying children behind in immunizations. A distance-based quality improvement model is feasible and may improve immunization rates.
authors: Pediatric Research in Office Settings, American Academy of Pediatrics, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007, USA. eslora@aap.org
authors: Eric J
authors: EJ
authors: Slora
authors: Jennifer M
authors: JM
authors: Steffes
authors: Donna
authors: D
authors: Harris
authors: Herbert W
authors: HW
authors: Clegg
authors: David
authors: D
authors: Norton
authors: Paul M
authors: PM
authors: Darden
authors: Susan A
authors: SA
authors: Sullivan
authors: Richard C
authors: RC
authors: Wasserman
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007114:Immunization / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010372:Pediatrics / Q000193:education*; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D019984:Quality Indicators, Health Care