Resource Guide
Steps for creating a directory
A structured, verified, and community-centered approach to organizing state and local vaccine resources to support safe and effective referrals.
1 Define scope and gather resource information
- The directory should be used for current services, referrals, forms, access support, and state or local information, rather than scientific questions or detailed dosing guidance.
- Determine the directory's state, service area, organization, designated owner, and review schedule.
- Compile comprehensive details for each entry, including eligibility, costs, hours, physical and web addresses, appointment processes, and clinical referral boundaries.
2 Verify all resources prior to entry
- Confirm the legitimacy of the organization and service, using official state, local, or organizational pages when available.
- Call the service directly to clarify if hours, cost, eligibility, availability, or accommodations are unclear.
- Ensure non-digital access options, language assistance, and disability accommodations are confirmed and accurately documented.
- Record the exact date of verification and the source used, while actively removing any duplicate, closed, or outdated entries to maintain accuracy.
3 Establish respectful handoff protocols
- Before referring an individual, confirm the location is reachable, hours are workable, and specific needs regarding language, literacy, privacy, or needle-fear can be met.
- Ensure eligibility and costs are clear, and verify if an appointment, non-digital scheduling option, or transportation support is required.
- Do not describe access barriers as misinformation or hesitancy; if a service cannot meet a need, record the gap rather than sending the person through an unusable referral.
4 Maintain the directory and escalate gaps
- Review the directory on its set schedule, before major events, or whenever a referral fails, a service reports a change, or workers encounter recurring access problems.
- The directory owner must date every revision, replace outdated print copies, and notify workers of any changes that affect current referrals.
- Maintain an approved backup contact for critical services and escalate recurring service gaps to program leadership.