How can I enroll my child with the immunization registry?
Parents or guardians may enroll or update their child in the Citywide Immunization Registry by completing and mailing the Child Enrollment/Update form and attaching a clear copy of their child's Lifetime Health Record or other immunization card. See Parent/Guardian Access page for details.
Is parental permission required to report immunizations?
No. Parental consent is not required to report immunizations given to individuals age 18 or younger. The NYC Health Code mandates reporting of immunizations for individuals age 18 or younger.
What information is currently in the Registry?
As of November 2005 the Registry contained immunization records for more than 2.5 million children, with nearly 20.6 million immunization events recorded. The Registry will only have as much information as providers add to that record. The long-term goal is to have a complete immunization record for every New Yorker.
What about confidentiality?
The information in the Registry is strictly confidential. No identifying information about a child beyond what the provider or parent/guardian already has will be released. The information providers receive from the Registry must be kept confidential and may not be disclosed except to protect the health of the child or the health of others.
Who must report?
The City Health code section 11.04 and 11.07(d) requires that all physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants who order the administration of an immunization for any individual age 18 years old and younger in New York City must report the immunizations administered to the Registry. Reporting of immunizations administered to patients age 19 years old or over is strongly encouraged. Consent is required from patients age 19 years and older to report the immunizations.
Do we still need Lifetime Health Records?
Please note that the CIR does not replace the parent-maintained immunization record, such as the Lifetime Health Record. Providers and parents are strongly encouraged to continue to use and rely on this record. However, the CIR maintains a record of immunizations each New York City child receives, even if the child has been seen by several providers.
Call 212-676-9964 to obtain DOHMH Lifetime Health Records.
