This page details the purpose of the toolkit, as well as MIHP immunization programmatic expectations that all home visitors are required to follow.
This toolkit provides resources to support MIHP home visitors’ (HV) communication with families about the importance of vaccination. It provides direct resources to use when having vaccine conversations and provides guidance on navigating vaccine hesitancy, promoting vaccine equity, and establishing vaccine confidence. In this toolkit, you will also find educational resources to enhance your own knowledge of vaccines, whether to build a foundation or to enhance existing knowledge.
Immunization assessment, education, and documentation are required per the Michigan Medicaid Manual3 and the Maternal Infant Health Program Operations Guide.1 This toolkit was developed to support implementation of such immunization requirements by providing resources that can be used to integrate within Plans of Care, protocols, and more.
Many vaccination decisions are made early, even during pregnancy. Data suggest this is a time when a family’s intention to vaccinate their infant can be most influenced and when negatives attitudes about vaccination can be reshaped4. Studies have shown that families want vaccine information before and during the prenatal period as well as before each well-child visit5. Additionally, frequent reminders can positively influence vaccine decisions and reinforce positive beliefs toward vaccination.5
This acknowledgment emphasizes the importance of harnessing the opportunity as a home visitor during such a pivotal time for families. As powerful as it may seem, social media or television is not the most trusted sources for vaccination information. Studies show that health care professionals, including non-clinical staff, play an important role in promoting vaccinations and creating a culture of immunization confidence for families.4 Literature also suggests that if vaccination is presented as the default approach and healthcare professionals engage in open discussion with families about vaccines early and often, families are more likely to vaccinate their children.5 Your commitment to discussing the importance of vaccination makes a difference.
