Gabert Clinic Pediatrics Team Recognized Statewide For Most Improved Vaccinations Among Toddlers

In the wake of the recent measles outbreak, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) recently recognized Gabert Clinic for achieving 86% of their toddlers who are fully vaccinated and for significantly increasing the number of children who are up-to-date since 2016.

Each year, the Montana Immunization Program recognizes immunization providers for their outstanding work in making sure their toddlers have received all the recommended vaccines. The Immunization Coverage Awards are presented to clinics in which 80% or 90% of toddlers have received recommended vaccines and to clinics that have significantly increased the number of children who are up-to-date on the vaccines. Statewide, 15 of 60 clinics reviewed in 2018 are being recognized for their achievements.

Dr. Chrystal Potter and Ericca Berry, DNP, PNP and nurses, Amy Buxbaum, RN, and Jordan Plouffe, RN, have highlighted the importance of protecting infants from vaccine-preventable diseases through education and advocacy. “Dedication to our patients’ safety and health is evident in the accomplishments by our Pediatrics department,” stated Angela Isaacson, RN, Gabert Clinic Manager, “We are very proud of their leadership as they have gone above and beyond to promote and foster childhood immunizations in our community”.

Gabert Clinic was one of five clinics who received the Improvement Award for most improved practices over a three-year period for the 4 DTap, 3 Polio, 1 MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella), UTD Hib, 3 Hepatitis B, 1 Varicella, and UTD PCV series. They also received the Certificate of Achievement – Healthy People 2020 award which is presented to clinics with at least 11 records that achieve the Healthy People 2020 goal of 80% or higher for the vaccination series. The staff was recognized as one of six clinics in the state with 30 records or more with a rating of 87% of UTD coverage rate for the series.