Related Experiment Videos
Who needs an immunization in a pediatric subspecialty clinic?
W T Basco1, J C Recknor, P M Darden
1Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, USA.
Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Pediatric subspecialty clinics struggle to assess immunization status, with enrolled patients being at higher risk for needed vaccines. Immunization status assessment is crucial for pediatric care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric subspecialty care
- Public health
- Immunization practices
Background:
- Pediatric subspecialty clinics are recommended to screen immunization status.
- Ensuring children receive necessary immunizations is a key public health goal.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the proportion of children whose immunization status can be assessed in a pediatric subspecialty clinic.
- To identify the percentage of assessed children due for immunization during their visit.
Main Methods:
- A standardized survey was administered to 196 children presenting to a pediatric cardiology clinic.
- Immunization needs were determined based on Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommendations.
Main Results:
- Immunization status was assessable in only 40% of the surveyed children.
- Of those with assessable status, 24% were due for an immunization.
- Children enrolled in the clinic were significantly more likely to be due for immunization (38% vs. 8%).
Conclusions:
- Most children presenting to pediatric subspecialty clinics have unassessable immunization status.
- Enrolled patients in these clinics are at increased risk for overdue immunizations.
- Pediatric subspecialists should actively assess and ensure immunization completion for their patients.