Monitoring vaccination coverage in Istanbul using the lot quality assurance sampling and geographic information system

Alkoy S., Ulugtekin N. N., Dogru A. Ö.

Journal of International Medical Research, vol.35, no.2, pp.242-252, 2007 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 35 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2007
  • Doi Number: 10.1177/147323000703500209
  • Journal Name: Journal of International Medical Research
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.242-252
  • Keywords: lot quality assurance sampling (LQAS), expanded programme on immunization (EPI), vaccination services quality, epidemiology, geographic information systems (GIS), thematic maps, HEALTH
  • Istanbul Technical University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

The quality of vaccination services provided for children aged 12-23 months was determined in different districts of Istanbul, Turkey. Quality was assessed through a lot quality assurance sampling method, using data extracted from interviews conducted in 2001 with the mothers or carers of the children. Concurrently, geographic information system technology was used for integrated evaluation of the data from different lots and for presentation of the results as thematic maps. The results of this study helped to identify districts of the city in which vaccination services were below the expected level of quality and where an unacceptable number of children were not being fully vaccinated. Subsequent to this study, actions were taken by the agencies responsible to improve the coverage and quality of the vaccination services in these districts of Istanbul.