Immunization
Use of a combination vaccine increased on-time immunization rates in infants
By AMCP
Apr 10, 2006 - 4:02:00 PM

Results from a retrospective observational study of data among members of a managed care health plan in Utah showed that infants who received a combination vaccine had significantly higher rates of receiving all of their vaccinations on-time in the first two years of life compared to infants given separate component vaccines. Results from the study were presented today at the Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy's (AMCP) 18th Annual Conference in Seattle, WA, by Laura Happe, Pharm.D., M.P.H., associate director at Applied Health Outcomes, a research strategy company in Palm Harbor, FL. This study was conducted by Applied Health Outcomes.

"While immunization rates in the United States are at an all time high, the 2003 National Immunization Survey showed that only 26 percent of infants receive their vaccinations on-time according to the ACIP recommended childhood schedule," said Dr. Happe. "Delayed immunizations may put children at risk for vaccine-preventable diseases and contribute to failure to complete the vaccination schedule. Combination vaccines may increase the number of infants who receive their vaccinations on-time."

The study evaluated the immunization history using claims and registry data of infants born between January 2003 and October 2003 with continuous enrollment in Intermountain Healthcare Health Plans, Incorporated, an integrated nonprofit health plan. Infants who were eligible for the study were distributed into two matched cohorts: the combination group (n=1,135) was made up of those who received at least one dose of PEDIARIX� [Diphtheria and Tetanus Toxoids and Acellular Pertussis Adsorbed (DTaP), Hepatitis B (Recombinant, HepB) and Inactivated Poliovirus Vaccine (IPV) Combined]; and the component group (n=1,913) was made up of those who were not immunized with combination DTaP-HepB-IPV. Timeliness was calculated as a percentage of children who received the immunization series of interest within the timeframe recommended by the ACIP/AAP/AAFP immunization schedule.

"Coverage rates are widely recognized as a quality indicator; however, timeliness of childhood vaccinations may have important implications in reducing the risk of vaccine-preventable disease," continued Dr. Happe. "These results suggest that expanding the number of infants who receive combination vaccines may increase the number of infants who receive their vaccinations on-time."

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