Closing the Gap

A Strategic Roadmap for Richland County Public Health

The Current Landscape

Richland County stands at a critical juncture. Our school immunization rate sits at 91.3%, which, while robust, still falls short of the 95% threshold required for community immunity. While religious exemptions remain low at 2.3%, 6.3% of student records are listed as "Missing or Incomplete." However, with 26 VFC providers serving the county, we have a strong foundation to close these gaps.

0% Immunization Rate
Target: 95%
0% Missing Records
Administrative "Gray Area"
0 VFC Providers
Serving entire county

Strategic Recommendations

1. Illuminating Blind Spots

With 6.3% of records "Missing or Incomplete," verification remains a priority. We must ensure every student's status is known to prevent potential outbreaks.

Engage Collectors
Improve transparency and reporting speed from registry.
Engage Reporters
Work with Schools & Clinics to improve data collection processes.
2. Strengthening Supply Chain

We have a solid network of 26 VFC providers. The goal now is to optimize their reach and ensure equitable access across the county.

Reform & Reimburse
Push state DPH to lighten VFC rules that might make mobile access easier.
3. Empowering Schools

Schools are the frontline. Administrators shouldn't have to reinvent the wheel; they need standardized tools.

Support
Share and encourage adoption of best practices with school administrators.
Standardize
Standardize non-compliance protocols to handle missing records consistently.
4. Driving Policy Change

Sustainable improvement requires a supportive policy environment that prioritizes student health.

Advocacy
Provide policy analysis on vaccine requirements and encourage advocacy.
Contact State Elected Officials Contact School Board Officials