Effective strategies for integrating immunization promotion into community programs.
Most immunization coalitions have originated with health care providers, potentially excluding families without medical homes. This study focused on a community-based approach to providing timely vaccinations. A coalition of 23 organizations developed an immunization program in a low-income community in New York City. Nearly 1,000 community health workers incorporated immunization promotion into social service and educational programs. Outcomes were coverage rates for the 4:3:1:3:3 series at 19 to 35 months, which were compared with national data by ethnicity, as reported in the National Immunization Survey 2002-2006. Parents (n = 10,251) of children <5 years received immunization education and reminders. The 2003-2007 rates of 80% equaled or exceeded the national rates for 19- to 35-month-olds, and the 2007 rate of 96.8% far surpassed the national average. Coalitions can effectively integrate immunization promotion activities into community programs. Immunization rate improvements maintained for a 5-year period, suggesting this approach to be sustainable.
Findley
Sally E
SE
Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University in New York, New York 10032, USA. sef5@columbia.edu
Sanchez
Martha
M
Mejia
Miriam
M
Ferreira
Richard
R
Pena
Oscar
O
Matos
Sergio
S
Stockwell
Melissa S
MS
Irigoyen
Matilde
M
D003150:Community Health Workers; D019058:Community Networks / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003657:Decision Making; D006265:Health Care Coalitions; D006282:Health Personnel; D054625:Healthcare Disparities; D006801:Humans; D017589:Immunization Programs / Q000458:organization & administration*; D007857:Leadership; D009519:New York City; D010379:Peer Group; D016730:Program Development; D012947:Social Work