1. Assess the Needs of the Population

Assess the needs of the population at hand for interest, commitment and sustainability. Consider the cost-versus-benefit ratio and how many vaccinations would be needed to cover all costs.

2. Find the Space

Secure a space to accomodate the flow of clients. Standard precautions should be in place. An area that can be considered private should be available if clothing needs to be removed to access immunization site.

3. Secure a Medical Director

Any free-standing or mobile clinic must have a medical director in place. The medical director is the only person that can purchase the vaccine from the manufacturer. They must be licensed to practice medicine in the state of Texas.

4. CDC Recommendations for Vaccine Storage

Click the link below to see how CDC recommends clinics store vaccine materials:

CDC Vaccine Storage Recommendations  PDF

5. Determine the Personnel

• A licensed medical professional, such as an RN, must be onsite at all times that can assess any adverse reaction to a vaccination.  Special situations that may arise are hypersensitivity or allergic reactions, such as hives, angioedema or anaphylaxis, syncopal or vasovagal responses, latex allergy, or bleeding disorders.
  
  
• A physician may delegate to any qualified person to administer a vaccination and that person will be working directly under that physician’s license.

6. Gather the Supplies

All equipment necessary for administration, documentation, and disposal must be considered. Up to date vaccine availability and distributors can be found here:

Prevent Influenza Now! 

7. Complete Necessary Documentation

Federal regulations require Vaccine Information Statements (VIS) be given to all persons receiving a vaccination. Camera ready copies are available on the CDC website: http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/pubs/vis 

The name and address of the vaccine administrator is the address the permanent record will reside.  Documentation must be available and accessible for ten years following administration of the vaccine.

8. Determine Method of Payment

Secure method of payment, either by cash, check, credit card, or insurance claims and reimbursement.

9. Arrange for Waste Removal

All used syringes should be placed in puncture proof containers.  Empty or expired vaccine vials are considered medical waste.  Follow disposal methods according to city or county regulations.

10. Plan for Special Situations

Special situations that may arise are hypersensitivity or allergic reactions, such as hives, angioedema or anaphylaxis, syncopal or vasovagal responses, latex allergy, or bleeding disorders. All vaccine adverse event reactions (VAERS) must be reported.

Guide to Reporting Adverse Reactions  PDF