Immunization Information for Providers

The Rhode Island State Supplied Adult and Childhood Vaccine programs provide vaccines for all ages through a number of different programs. Providers must agree to the terms and conditions of each program and enroll separately for different programs. For the childhood immunization program, providers must sign an agreement to participate. The adult immunization program provides seasonal influenza and pneumococcal vaccines to adults.The uninsured adult program requires a separate annual agreement and allows participants to order influenza vaccines for the uninsured population.

Program Enrollment

Enrollment is now open for Immunize For Life. Healthcare providers can enroll once to order vaccine for both pediatric and adult patients. Enrollment must be completed online. Guidance is available for healthcare providers who have questions or who need assistance.

Flu Vaccine Reporting

All Rhode Island healthcare providers who are vaccinating patients against the flu through the State-Supplied Vaccine program must make vaccine administration and inventory reports every week. (more) To be eligible for additional flu vaccine deliveries for the next reporting period, a practice must submit its report by 11:59 p.m. each Monday.

Immunization Resource Manual

Healthcare providers are required by the Immunization Program to maintain documentation of immunization information related to immunization schedules, forms, policies, and disaster recovery as determined by CDC and Advisory Committee on Immunization (ACIP). A complete list of such resources, links and materials are contained in the Immunization Resource Manual.

Vaccine Administration

Providers who participate in the Department of Health's Immunize for Life Program must adhere to the applicable requirements for ordering, storing, and managing vaccines and reporting vaccinations. Before administering any vaccine, the provider must give the current Vaccine Information Statement to the patient or his/her parents or guardians. This information must be documented on the patient's medical record, and in KIDSNET for children, at the time of vaccination.

Practices may receive separate shipments of vaccines from multiple programs. Practices must maintain a temperature log for all vaccines stored at their sites.

In addition to regular standards and protocols, healthcare providers who receive vaccines from the Department of Health must create and maintain a vaccine disaster recovery plan (.doc .pdf) to minimize the loss of vaccine during a power outage or other unplanned adverse event.

Vaccine Reimbursement

Providers who participate in the Department of Health's Immunize for Life Program may submit claims for reimbursement according to individual health plan guidelines. (more)