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Do we practice what we teach about childhood immunization in New Jersey?
C M Sharkness1, B D Goun, L A Davis
1Department of Family Medicine, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, USA. sharknca@umdnj.edu
Family Medicine
|November 25, 1998
Summary
Childhood immunization rates in New Jersey residencies are below targets. Improving resident knowledge and addressing barriers like missing records could enhance childhood immunization coverage.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Family Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Childhood immunization is crucial for preventive care in family practices.
- No prior data existed on immunization coverage in New Jersey family practice residencies.
- This study addresses this gap by assessing immunization rates and related factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess immunization coverage among 2-year-olds in nine New Jersey family practice residencies.
- To evaluate childhood immunization knowledge among residents, nurses, and faculty.
- To identify barriers to childhood immunization within these residency programs.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of immunization records for 726 children using CDC's Clinic Assessment Software Application.
- Analysis of survey data from 294 residents, nurses, and faculty on immunization knowledge and barriers.
- Correlation analysis between immunization audit levels and knowledge scores.
Main Results:
- Mean immunization coverage for 2-year-olds was 53%, with rates varying significantly by age (highest at 3 months, lowest at 16 months).
- Survey respondents had a mean knowledge score of 75%, with faculty scoring highest (82%) and residents lowest (71%).
- Lack of immunization records was the most significant office-related barrier, reported by 47% of respondents.
Conclusions:
- Immunization rates in New Jersey family practice residencies fall short of Healthy People 2000 goals.
- Increased provider knowledge may improve immunization rates, warranting further investigation.
- Targeted research to overcome immunization barriers is essential for improving pediatric preventive care.