Improving immunization rates in private pediatric practices through physician leadership

• Published in: Archives of pediatrics & adolescent medicine Vol. 153; no. 6; p. 597
• Main Authors: Sinn, J S, Morrow, A L, Finch, A B
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01-06-1999
• Subjects: Analysis of Variance; Child, Preschool; Humans; Immunization - statistics & numerical data; Immunization Programs - standards; Immunization Programs - statistics & numerical data; Immunization Schedule; Infant; Leadership; Pediatrics; Physician's Role; Practice Guidelines as Topic; Private Practice; Total Quality Management; Virginia
• ISSN: 1072-4710
• DOI: 10.1001/archpedi.153.6.597

To determine whether a physician-led quality improvement initiative can improve immunization rates in participating private practices.
Surveys of private pediatric practices at 6-month intervals over an 18-month period.
Ten private pediatric practices in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, Va.
Children aged 9 to 30 months attending the private practices.
Practice immunization rates were assessed and presented to practices on 4 occasions at 6-month intervals. A physician leader convened an immunization task force meeting following the first 3 assessments to review practice guidelines, examine data, and discuss practice changes.
Practice immunization rates for patients at age 24 months, with 3- and 12-month immunization rates as secondary outcomes.
The mean practice immunization rate at age 24 months increased significantly (P<.05) from 50.9% at baseline to 69.7%. Rates also increased at age 3 months, from 75.5% to 88.9%, and at age 12 months, from 72.9% to 84.6%. The median age at administration of the fourth dose of diphtheria toxoid, tetanus toxoid, and pertussis vaccine decreased (P<.05) from 17.6 to 16.8 months. Physicians also reported making additional changes, including improved record keeping and screening for immunizations at every visit.
A quality improvement initiative enabling physician leadership can improve preschool immunization practices and coverage levels in pediatric practices.