[DUPLICATE] Incorporating scannable forms into immunization data collection processes: a mixed-methods study.

INTRODUCTION: Individual-level immunization data captured electronically can facilitate evidence-based decision-making and planning. Populating individual-level records through manual data entry is time-consuming. An alternative is to use scannable forms- completed at the point of vaccination and subsequently scanned and exported to a database or registry. To explore the suitability of this approach for collecting immunization data- we conducted a feasibility study in two settings in Ontario- Canada. METHODS AND FINDINGS: Prior to the 2011-2012 influenza vaccination campaign- we developed a scannable form template and a corresponding database that captured required demographic and clinical data elements. We examined efficiency- data quality- and usability through time observations- record audits- staff interviews- and client surveys. The mean time required to scan and verify forms (62.3 s) was significantly shorter than manual data entry (69.5 s) in one organization- whereas there was no difference (36.6 s vs