A Focus on Childhood Immunization

Immunizations are one of the most effective ways we protect the health of our children. Did you know that Washington state lags far behind the national average in immunization rates? In 2007, only 69 percent of children aged 19 to 35 months had a complete vaccination series. These low immunization rates could have serious consequences for the health of our children and our communities.

The Group Health Foundation, with the support of donors, is committed to increasing immunization rates for our children. Over the next three years the Foundation plans to raise $1 million for childhood immunization access and education initiatives.

Increasing Access

Too many children have fallen through the cracks when it comes to immunization. Language, cultural, and socio-economic barriers are just a few of the reasons why a child may not have received all the recommended immunizations. Group Health will be partnering with schools and local health departments to identify creative ways to increase access through a school-based approach. This means bringing immunizations to where the children are: in schools.

Education for Parents and Providers

A growing number of parents in our state are worried about the safety of immunizations. Some of this concern stems from conflicting and often confusing information in the media and on the Internet. Parents need the right information so they can work with their providers to make informed decisions about immunizing their children.

The Foundation will be working with its community partners to develop new educational tools and resources for both parents and providers. These tools will help them work together to make sure that children are protected against infectious diseases like measles and whooping cough.