AAP Releases “Immunization Information Technology Guide” for pediatricians

2D Barcode

At CPP’s recent Vaccine Management Summit, 2D barcoding stood out as a topic of interest among attendees. CPP members will find a new AAP guide helpful as they continue to learn about this technology.

The AAP recently released a guide for pediatricians with information on two key information technology topics: immunization information systems and two dimensional barcoding. In addition, the AAP provides a detailed website for both topics that summarizes the information found in the new guide and provides relevant links.

Immunization Information Systems, also known as vaccine or immunization registries, are confidential computerized systems that capture vaccination data across the lifespan within a certain geographical area. The use of these systems can reduce healthcare costs and improve patient care. The benefits to pediatric practices of using these systems include minimizing duplicate vaccine administration, aiding in recalling patients overdue for vaccinations, reminding patients of upcoming immunizations, and identifying vulnerable patients during a disease outbreak.

Two Dimensional Barcode Scanning Technology can be used with the majority of pediatric vaccines. Recent studies show that the use of 2D scanning increase accuracy in vaccine documentation and reduces documentation time by an average of 21 seconds. 2D barcode scanning improves practice efficiency, increases vaccine inventory accuracy, and assists in proper billing. In addition, the technology benefits patients by improving safety and documentation, reducing errors, and identifying expired vaccines before they are administered to patients. The AAP’s 2D barcoding resources include practice uses, choosing a scanner, and getting the scanner to “work.”   

For practices not yet ready to implement 2D barcoding, CPP has other resources to help manage your vaccine inventory including a Vaccine Inventory Reconciliation Sheet. These resources can be found on our website.