Access Medicaid is currently involved in a project to encourage parents to keep current records of their children's immunizations.

• The Main Concern
  Your child's' healthcare provider keeps health records for your child and you should, too. Here is why:
  • You will be asked to share the information every time your child sees a new healthcare provider or enrolls in a school or daycare.
  • Your healthcare provider may change, making it difficult to get the information you need.
  • You know your child's history better than anyone else - keeping your own written record helps to organize the information.

• What You Need To Do
  
  • Gather all shot records for each child in the family and keep them together in one place in your home. If you don't have a record, ask your provider.
  • Ask your healthcare provider questions! Every question deserves an answer.
  • Make sure children receive required shots and well-child check-ups on time for their age.
  • Know where to go for more information - your healthcare provider, Nebraska Health Connection / Kids Connection Office, local health department, healthcare plan, reliable Internet resources, etc.

• Why It Is So Important
  Immunizations keep kids safe from disease. Getting immunizations are important, but figuring out what vaccines to get and when to get them can be difficult. Even though most infants and toddlers have received all recommended vaccines, there are still many under-immunized children, which means there is a risk for outbreaks of these diseases. Having your own record for your children's immunizations helps to make sure that your child does not have to repeat any shots - which can happen if the records are not complete.