Determining immunization rates for inner-city infants: Statewide registry data vs medical record review

Objective This study evaluated the benefit Of consulting a statewide immuni zation registry for inner-city infants whose immunizations appeared after s ingle-site chart review, to have been delayed. Methods. We prospectively enrolled 315 newborns in 3 inner-city pediatric c linics. When the infants turned 7 months old, we obtained immunization data from clinic charts and the state registry. Results. On the basis of chart review, 147 infants (47%) were assessed to b e delayed in their immunizations; of these, registry data revealed that 28 (19%) had received additional immunizations and 15 (10%) were actually up t o dale, Conclusions. A statewide registry can capture immunizations from multiple s ources, improving accurate determination of immunization rates in a mobile, inner-city population.