ImmTech Strategies Summit
Improving Immunization Information Systems: Paving the Way for a Totally Connected Texas

On June 12-13, 2006, approximately 120 immunization stakeholders convened in Austin for the ImmTech Strategies Summit. The purpose of the Summit was to facilitate discussion and collaboration among participants to define recommendations for improving immunization information systems in Texas. Summit participants included representatives from local health departments, state agencies, school districts, medical schools, health plans, non-profit clinics, state associations, and foundations.

During the two days, state and national speakers shared information about current immunization information system activities, best practices, common challenges, and the many benefits of well-connected systems. Participants also gained valuable insight for effectively educating legislators about current public health issues during a Texas legislative panel discussion.

Interactive breakout sessions explored the technical, programmatic and policy-related issues most pertinent to immunization information systems in Texas. Following the breakout sessions, roundtable discussions on topics as diverse as Public Relations, Schools, and Technical Improvements generated a long list of recommendations for enhancing immunization information systems throughout the state. These recommendations were presented to the group and, through a voting process, eventually narrowed down to the five most important topics:

• Technical Improvements
• Opt-In/Opt-Out
• Emergency Preparedness
• Funding for a Unified System
• Training and Participation

Post-Summit workgroups have been created so that Summit participants can continue working together on these issues and action steps for building more robust, well-connected immunization information systems in Texas.

Click here to access presentations and other Summit materials. If you have any questions about these materials, or any other post-Summit information, please contact Becky Pastner by email or at (512) 879-6237.

The Summit was sponsored by in collaboration with: