Vaccine-Associated Liability Risk and Provider Immunization Practices

Variation in hepatitis B immunization coverage rates associated with provider practices after the temporary suspension of the birth dose

BACKGROUND In 1999, the American Academy of Pediatrics and U.S. Public Health Service recommended suspending the birth dose of hepatitis B vaccine due to concerns about potential mercury exposure. A previous report found that overall national hepatitis B vaccination coverage rates decreased in association with the suspension. It is unknown whether this underimmunization occurred uniformly or wa...

Childhood immunization refusal: provider and parent perceptions.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Parental concerns may contribute to immunization refusals and low infant immunization rates. Little knowledge is available about how often and why parents refuse immunizations for their children. This study was conducted to estimate, based on reports from health care providers and parents, the frequency of and reasons for immunization refusal. METHODS In 1998, we con...

Influenza vaccine in pregnant women: immunization coverage and associated factors

OBJECTIVES To describe the immunization coverage of the influenza vaccine for pregnant women, and factors associated to vaccination compliance. METHODS This is a prospective, descriptive study including 300 women who had just given birth at Hospital and Maternity Santa Joana in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Data were collected through a pre-tested questionnaire applied by a trained evaluator during Octo...

Immunization levels and risk factors for low immunization coverage among private practices.

OBJECTIVES Previous studies have indicated that provider characteristics are an important determinant of immunization coverage. The objectives of this study were to: 1) assess immunization coverage levels among 2-year-old children receiving care in private practices in 3 California counties; and 2) evaluate practice and patient risk factors for low immunization coverage. STUDY DESIGN Cross-se...

Pain management and provider liability: no more excuses.