Final Evaluation of Done By 2 Immunization Program
Currently within Canada, immunization coverage goals are not being met. Improving vaccination rates and reducing vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks are thought to improve population health outcomes and reduce costs to the Canadian healthcare system. As such, the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) is focusing on increasing immunization coverage in Saskatchewan by implementing the Done By 2 (DB2) program to increase demand for immunization, enhance access to immunization services, and improve the ability of health care providers to provide immunization. DB2 began in the Core and West areas of Saskatoon in 2007. DB2 comprises an electronic immunization database and reminder system as well as hiring of Community Program Builders (CPB) who engage with clients who are overdue for immunizations. In April 2019, DB2 was extended to include the remainder of Saskatoon, the city of Prince Albert (PA), and the Regina South network. The program utilizes various strategies to increase immunization rates, including providing tailored assistance and reliable information about immunizations and healthcare, increasing clinic capacity through protected hours for DB2 clients, and partnerships with community organizations.
The aim of the evaluation is to assess the effectiveness of the Done By 2 (DB2) program on (1) increasing immunization rates of two year old children in Saskatoon, the Regina South network, and Prince Albert; (2) decreasing the disparity between the underserved and vulnerable populations and the total population in each of these areas; and (3) assess the process of implementation for scale-up and sustainability within Saskatchewan. To accomplish this, a survey was created to assess client knowledge and attitudes towards immunization, client perceptions of the public health (PH) staff, barriers to accessing immunization services, and preferences around immunization appointments and reminders. DB2 staff were interviewed to assess the strengths and limitations of the program, facilitators and risks to successful scale up, as well as potential program improvements. Finally, data were extracted from the DB2 database regarding coverage rates at 2 years of age; immunization of children within 30 days of different types of contact; and disparities between the most and least disadvantaged populations.
A full report, which you can read below, was prepared by Fiona Fick, Research Analyst, Research, for Sheila Anderson, Executive Director, Primary Health Care and Patricia Comfort, Director, Clinical Integration.