Utilizing a Five-Step, Direct-Call Reminder System to Increase Vaccination Compliance in a Federally Qualified Health Center: A Quality Improvement Process.

Background: Childhood vaccines prevent more than 10 million illnesses and 33,000 deaths in the United States each year. Noncompliance rates for children 2 and under are higher in underserved and resource poor communities.

Objective: The aim of this project was to develop and implement a five-step, direct-call reminder system to increase vaccination rates among children ages 2 and under presenting to a federally qualified health center (FQHC).

Methods: This project examined whether direct phone contact with parents can increase office visits to discuss vaccine status over a 6-week period following implementation of a five-step, direct-call reminder system.

Results: 47 parents/guardians were contacted from a list of 455 patients. Thirty-six percent of parents contacted scheduled and kept appointments.

Conclusions: This study found that the vaccines rates of a FQHC practice initiative are directly affected by methods of contact and knowledge of the vaccine schedule. Reaching out and discussing vaccine schedules with parents can increase vaccination rates. Yet, many of them have limited methods of contact.

Implications for nursing: A five-step, direct-call reminder system has a positive impact on vaccination compliance. Vaccination compliance is complicated, and approaches should be multifaceted.