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Hello Child Care Providers,
The Department of Health (DOH) and Office of Child Development and Early Learning (OCDEL) have collaborated for many years regarding the safety of the children and staff within your facilities, especially as it relates to immunizations. This collaboration will continue, but there will be some changes this year regarding the visits to child care providers and reporting the status of each child’s immunizations.
Beginning July 2024, DOH field nurses and local Municipality Department of Health field staff will visit randomly selected child care providers to offer immunization education and resource materials for staff and parents/caregivers. A review of child immunization records can be provided, if requested by the child care provider. If requested, a random sample of immunization records can be reviewed.
The field nurses and staff are very knowledgeable and should be seen as a resource in helping to educate you and your staff on disease preventable vaccinations for the health and safety of the children and staff within your facility. Take this opportunity to ask questions and request specific educational resources.
Also new this year, the DOH will be sending out electronic surveys to all child care providers regarding the immunization status of every enrolled child at their facility. These surveys will serve as the mandatory reporting requirements for child care settings outlined in DOH regulations 28 Pa. Code § 27.77. Immunization requirements for children in child care group settings. It is anticipated these surveys will be sent later this summer.
Thank you for your cooperation and partnership regarding these changes. For child care providers who are randomly selected for a visit, please expect a phone call or email from DOH or the local Municipality to schedule your visit.
For questions or concerns, please contact Janine Strick at the Department of Health at (717) 787-5681.
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