SB 817 - Beginning January 1, 2015, this act requires every immunization provider to submit all vaccination records of adults and children in the state to the Missouri Immunization Registry established and maintained by the Department of Health and Senior Services. The registry shall provide protected access to all immunization providers and other authorized persons or entities seeking vaccination records from the registry for the purpose of:
-Improving immunization rates for adults and children;
-Elimination of duplication of immunizations and prompting standardization as to the timing of immunizations for all age groups;
-Reducing costs associated with over-vaccination;
-Assessing compliance with immunization requirements for school-age children; and
-Providing immediate access to vaccination records in the event of an outbreak or epidemic and assisting disaster response systems in effectively and efficiently utilizing resources in such event.
There are options for an adult, a parent of a minor child or a legal guardian to complete an immunization registry opt-out form. An immunization provider is prohibited from submitting the records of an adult or child who has completed such opt-out form.
The act specifies the rules to be promulgated by the Department and which issues that are to be addressed including the manner of submission and availability, including the availability of providers to update and amend the registry. Immunization providers shall be the only registry users authorized to do so. All other users shall have read-in access only.
The act establishes the procedure for when an immunization provider is unable to electronically provide the required information and the steps that shall be made to be in compliance with the act.
An immunization provider or other licensed or certified authorized user shall be subject to sanction of his or her license or certificate for any violation of the provisions of the act.
This act is identical to HB 1445 (2014).
ADRIANE CROUSE