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What is the
Colorado Immunization Information System? |
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Colorado Immunization Information System (CIIS)
is a computerized information system that collects vaccination histories
to ensure correct and timely immunizations for children. CIIS is
operated by the University of Colorado Health Sciences Center on behalf
of the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment under the
Colorado Immunization Act (24-5-1701 CRS). States and communities
throughout the country have developed confidential
immunization information systems with assistance from federal,
state and local partners. |
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How does CIIS work?
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CIIS is a
database that is web enabled and accessed through Internet Explorer. It
is based on a SQL Server 2000 platform. Participating immunization
providers can retrieve and input immunizations 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week. Immunizations for a child are kept in a single record, even if the
child is seen by more than one provider. CIIS allows a provider to
review a patient’s immunization history at
each visit and quickly determine what immunizations are due based on
recommendations by the Advisory Committee on
Immunization Practices (ACIP). Participation in CIIS is voluntary for
both providers and parents. Parents have the right to have their child’s
immunization data excluded. CIIS provides forms necessary for the
provider to inform a parent of the right to exclude the information and
of the benefits of having the child’s information in the system. |
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Why
should my practice take part in CIIS? |
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To provide quality patient care
• CIIS displays recommended immunizations
at each visit based on current ACIP standards
• CIIS highlights reactions and
contraindications
• CIIS produces labels to remind or recall
patients for immunizations
• CIIS can immediately identify patients
for vaccine recalls
To save time
• Retrieve immunizations entered by other
offices for your new patients
• Print immunization forms for school, day
care and camp without pulling charts
• Track vaccine usage
• Record all data required by the National
Childhood Vaccine Injury Act
To ensure more complete
immunization records
• For quality improvement in your practice
• For HMO and other payor chart reviews
To save money
• Malpractice insurers may offer discounts
on premiums for participation in CIIS |
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How do I
access CIIS? |
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You must sign a
User Agreement with CIIS that states your practice will keep the
information confidential and not share it with any
unauthorized person. CIIS staff provides each individual with his
or her own ID and password to ensure
confidentiality of the information in the system.
To use CIIS you will need to have one or more computers with Internet
Explorer 5.5 (or higher), Internet access and
printing capabilities. |
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What data is included in CIIS? |
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Information in the CIIS includes the
immunization delivery information, who administered the immunization,
information to ensure accurate records and avoid duplicate records
(mother’s maiden name, child’s gender) and the child’s address to allow
recall or reminder notices to be sent.
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Who has access to CIIS data? |
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The
Immunization Act allows CIIS to gather immunization information from the
child’s immunization provider, clinics, schools, the child’s parent, the
child, any HMO where the child is enrolled, hospitals, or entities that
have contracted with the CDPHE under the Immunization Act. Information
in the CIIS can only be released to the same entities that provide
information plus the Department of Health Care Policy and Financing for
children enrolled in Medicaid. Under the Immunization Act, anyone who
released information in the CIIS to anyone who is not permitted to have
the information commits a crime and can be punished. |
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How much will it cost for my practice to
participate? |
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There is no fee for access or use of CIIS
but unlimited Internet access at appropriate
locations in your office is necessary. CIIS staff will work with you to
utilize the equipment you already have. CIIS
will provide training for your staff at no cost to you. |
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How will HIPAA regulations affect my
participation in CIIS? |
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HIPAA
regulations state that a covered entity can release immunization
information to an immunization information system authorized by a state
law such as the Immunization Act without prior authorization. The
covered entity must keep track of all releases of protected health
information. CIIS keeps a complete record of all information needed to
comply with the tracking requirements of HIPAA and will furnish a report
to a participating provider at no cost. |
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How can I find out
more about CIIS? |
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(888) 611-9918
Colorado Immunization
Information System
University of Colorado Health Sciences Center
P.O. Box 6508, F456
Aurora, CO 80045-0508
www.coloradoimmunizations.info |