Influence of health providers on pediatrics' immunization rate

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Childhood immunization is critical for preventing infectious diseases.
• Suboptimal immunization rates remain a challenge in many regions, including Iraq.
• Identifying factors associated with immunization coverage is essential for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine characteristics of immunization providers linked to vaccination rates in children under two years.
• To explore risk factors for partial immunization in young children.

Main Methods:

• A cohort and cluster sampling design was employed.
• Data were collected from 528 children aged 18–70 months across five public health clinics in Mosul, Iraq.
• Bivariate analyses and multi-level logistic regression models were used to analyze provider characteristics and immunization status.

Main Results:

• Less than half of the children studied experienced missed vaccination doses, classifying them as partially immunized.
• A significant association was found between immunization rates and the type of immunization provider.
• Child's birthplace and the type of immunization provider were identified as key factors impacting immunization rates, even when controlling for other variables.

Conclusions:

• Provider type and birthplace are significant determinants of childhood immunization rates.
• Interventions aimed at improving childhood vaccination coverage should consider these identified provider and demographic factors.
• Further research into optimizing public health clinic strategies in Mosul, Iraq, is warranted.