Abstract | INTRODUCTION: Recent evaluations of computer-generated reminder/recall messages have suggested that they are an inexpensive, labor-saving method of improving office visitation rates of childhood immunization providers. This study assesses the sustained impact of computer-generated messages on immunization coverage during the first two years of life. DESIGN: Randomized, controlled trial. SETTING: County health department in the Denver metropolitan area. STUDY PARTICIPANTS: INTERVENTION: Households of children were randomized into four groups to receive: telephone messages followed by letters (Group A); telephone messages alone (Group B); letters only (Group C); or no notification (Group D). Households in the intervention groups (A, B, and C) received up to five computer-generated telephone messages and/or up to four letters each time their children became due for immunization(s). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Immunization series completion at 24 months of age. RESULTS: Children whose families were randomized to receive any of the interventions were 21% more likely to have completed the immunization series by 24 months of age than were children randomized into the control group (49.2% vs 40.9%; RR [rate ratio] = .21; CI [confidence interval] = 1.01, 1.44). While not statistically significant, children in Group A were 23% more likely to complete their immunization series by 24 months of age than those in the control group (50.2% vs 40.9%; RR = 1.23; CI = 1.00, 1.52). No differences were detected among the intervention groups. The costs per additional child completing the series by 24 months of age in Group A was $226 ($79 after start-up costs were discounted). CONCLUSION: Computer-generated contacts, either by phone or by mail (or both combined), used each time vaccines become due, are efficacious in increasing immunization coverage of children under 2 years of age.
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Authors | E F Dini, R W Linkins, J Sigafoos |
Journal | American journal of preventive medicine
(Am J Prev Med)
Vol. 18
Issue 2
Pg. 132-9
(Feb 2000)
ISSN: 0749-3797 [Print] Netherlands |
PMID | 10698243
(Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Comparative Study, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)
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Chemical References |
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis Vaccine
- Poliovirus Vaccine, Inactivated
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Topics |
- Child Health Services
(organization & administration)
- Colorado
- Computer Systems
- Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis Vaccine
- Humans
- Immunization
(statistics & numerical data)
- Immunization Schedule
- Infant
- Patient Compliance
- Poliovirus Vaccine, Inactivated
- Reminder Systems
(economics)
- Urban Population
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