Health Care Provider Knowledge of the Immunization Schedule and the Contraindications to Vaccinate

The purpose to this study was to determine if the current knowledge of Kent county\u27s health care providers contributed to the under immunization of children less than two years of age. A survey, modified from a previous study done in Los Angeles, was distributed to Family Practice and Pediatrics offices within the greater Grand Rapids area. Several areas of health care provider knowledge were assessed. These included: (1) knowledge of the primary series immunization schedule in both a child on time and delinquent, (2) knowledge of timing between diptheria, tetanus, and pertussis boosters, and (3) knowledge of the contraindications to vaccinate. The results showed an 89% correct response rate for knowledge of the immunization schedule and an 80% correct response rate for knowledge of the contraindications to vaccinate. Overall it was concluded that Kent county health care providers were sufficiently knowledgeable in both areas stated and, therefore, did not significantly contribute to the under immunization of young children