10 STEPS TO A SUCCESSFUL STATEWIDE IMMUNIZATION REGISTRY

Lessons learned play a valuable role in understanding the dynamics of building immunization registries. These extend beyond technical issues . Arizona has identified 10 steps in the natural evolution of a system that are leading to a successful state immunization registry developm ent project. Identifying the technical solutions for implementing a re gistry is somewhat straightforward. Providing a cost-constrained, user -efficient, timely, and implementable solution is somewhat harder. Eli minating barriers and convincing providers to participate to create a ''win-win'' environment for all involved is harder still. Maintaining user enthusiasm and energy is the challenge. The Arizona immunization project has identified and is following 10 steps that are key to meeti ng these challenges and achieving the required success. The steps are as follows: (1) establish a coalition of statewide private and public partners; (2) develop a technical plan; (3) review the plan with the c ommunity of providers and associated immunization organizations; (4) s ecure adequate funding; (5) create an integrated development team that includes technical, immunization-specialist, and user-support members ; (6) market, educate, and sell the solution to providers, schools, nu rse associations, managed care organizations, and parents on the syste m; (7) develop and test components of the system in a pilot mode, buil ding and expanding upon success and not being afraid of failure; (8) m aintain project visibility; (9) provide ongoing and timely user suppor t and interaction, listening to providers; and (10) change with the ti mes, adapt the program as the need arises. Medical Subject Headings (M eSH): immunization registries; computer systems development.