Improving School Entry Immunization Rates in a Rural New York County

Summary

Impact Statement: 
This mixed semi-urban and rural county had the lowest rate of kindergartners completely immunized in New York State (89%), with baseline data for the immunization rates among schools in the county ranging from 15.4% to 90%. The QI initiative aimed to improve the immunization rate for children entering kindergarten and tested three interventions. A parent survey indicated that lack of a health care provider was a major contributor to children not receiving immunizations, and through meetings with schools, it was discovered that officials at private schools did not always understand the state requirements for immunizations. Interventions included reaching out to parents of children in targeted schools, increasing the availability of immunization clinics, and educating parents and school nurses. At the end of the interventions, preliminary data demonstrated improved immunization rates in all schools, with percent increases ranging from 7.3% to 83% and immunization rates ranging from 75% to 100%.
Summary: 

This quality improvement (QI) initiative was to improve the immunization rate of schools in Sullivan County, New York, for children entering kindergarten at all schools. Baseline data indicated that immunization rates among schools in the county ranged from 15.4% to 90%. A parent survey indicated that lack of a health care provider was a major contributor to children not receiving immunizations, and through meetings with schools, it was discovered that private schools did not always understand the state requirements for immunizations. Interventions included reaching out to parents of children in targeted schools, increasing the availability of immunization clinics, and educating parents and school nurses. At the end of the intervention, preliminary data demonstrated improved immunization rates in all schools, with percent increases ranging from 7.3% to 83% and immunization rates ranging from 75% to 100%.

Organization that conducted the QI initiative: 
Sullivan County Public Health Services
Citation: 

Ryan, C. Public Health Quality Improvement Exchange. Improving School Entry Immunization Rates in a Rural New York County. Tue, 02/28/2017 - 15:29. Available at https://www.phqix.org/content/improving-school-entry-immunization-rates-rural-new-york-county. Accessed November 11, 2024.

Submission Status: 
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Carol Ryan's picture
Submitted by Carol Ryan on

Thank you.

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Carol S. Ryan, RN, MPH
Director of Public Health/ Patient Services
Sullivan County Public Health Services -
PO Box 590, 50 Community Lane
Liberty, NY 12754

Tel: 845-292-5910 x 2179
Fax: 845-513-2276 (use cover)
Carol.Ryan@co.sullivan.ny.us

Link to the resource where this submission is also published: 
NNPHI submission for grant; not sure if published on website.