Narrowing the gap in childhood immunization disparities

Abstract

The reduction of health disparities among all people in the United States is a national health priority. Although immunization rates have improved in the past 20 years, disparities continue to exist among ethnic and racial groups, across different socioeconomic classes, and in different geographic locations. Pediatric health care providers can play a key role in helping to narrow the gap in immunization coverage rates, thus reducing disparities. The purpose of this article is to (1) provide a review of the literature on disparities in immunization rates of children and adolescents, (2) provide suggestions for intervention to minimize immunization disparities, and (3) set an agenda for future research in this area.