Closing the Gap

A Strategic Roadmap for Van Buren County Public Health

The Current Landscape

Van Buren County faces a dual challenge of access and administrative gaps. With a kindergarten immunization rate of 83%, we are notably below the 95% threshold required for community immunity, leaving zero kindergartens properly shielded against potential outbreaks. A significant driver of this shortfall is data completeness, with 11.3% of records missing. Furthermore, with only 2 VFC providers in the entire county, addressing logistical barriers and vaccine hesitancy is critical.

Measles Risk
Measles Risk Vulnerability. Data for mapping from collaboration between Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai.
0% Immunization Rate
Target: 95%
0% Missing Records
Key Administrative Hurdle
0 VFC Providers
Limited Access Network

Strategic Recommendations

1. Streamlining Health Records

With 11.3% of kindergarten health records missing or incomplete, our data is likely masking the true immunization rate. We must ensure school records are accurate and up-to-date.

Process
Audit school enrollment systems to pinpoint where paperwork is being delayed or lost during the intake process.
Support
Provide targeted administrative assistance to local schools to help track down missing student health forms.
2. Enhancing Convenience & Access

With only 2 VFC providers in the entire county, geographical and logistical barriers to vaccination access are high. We must find ways to make healthcare more convenient for residents.

Partnerships
Collaborate with mobile health units and community organizations to bring vaccination resources into underserved neighborhoods.
Visibility
Promote the locations and hours of the 2 existing VFC providers, advocating for flexible or after-hours scheduling options.
3. Building Trust in Vaccine Safety

With a religious exemption rate of 5.7%, fostering trust and transparent dialogue regarding vaccine safety is essential for community health.

Education
Partner with trusted local healthcare providers to host community Q&A sessions addressing specific safety concerns.
Communication
Develop clear, locally tailored materials that transparently explain vaccine testing, safety protocols, and mild side effects.
4. Driving Policy Chance

Sustainable improvement requires a supportive policy environment that supports completion of multi-dose series.

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