Exploring the feasibility of integrating barcode scanning technology into vaccine inventory recording in seasonal influenza vaccination clinics.

BACKGROUND: In response to the need for improved quality of vaccine inventory and client immunization records- barcodes containing a unique identifier and lot number will be placed on all vaccine vials in Canada. We conducted feasibility studies to examine integration of barcode scanning into inventory recording workflow for mass immunization clinics. METHODS: During the 2010-2011 seasonal influenza vaccination campaign- Ontario public health units (PHUs) using an electronic immunization system were randomized to record clinic inventory data (including vaccine lot number and expiry date) through: (i) barcode scanning of vials/ or (ii) drop-down menus. A third group of PHUs recording vaccine inventory on paper served as an observation arm. We visited a sample of clinics within each PHU to assess barcode readability- method efficiency and data quality. Clinic staff completed a survey examining method perceptions. RESULTS: We observed 20 clinics using barcode scanning to record inventory data (eight PHUs)- 20 us