Data Flow and Use

The MCIR consists of a single, secure electronic database operated by MDCH. Physicians, and other health care providers submit data relative to the immunizations they provide.

Schools and Childcare Centers use the MCIR to do their immunization program (compliance) reporting to their local health departments. They view the provider-entered immunizations and have the capability of adding in additional historical immunization information.  School/Childcare-entered information is not considered medically authorized data, thus it is stored separately from the Provider-entered immunization data.

Reporting methods
Immunization data may be submitted electronically or by using paper scan forms. Those providers submitting their data electronically may use the MCIR Web application to submit records interactively on an individual basis, or in groups through a batch transfer from an approved Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system. A Vaccine Inventory Module assists providers with management of their vaccine inventory and will generate the reports needed for documentation of the Vaccines For Children program.

Accessing methods
The data may be accessed only by authorized professionals to determine which immunizations are due for the children they see. MCIR Provides different levels of data access and security to safeguard patient confidentiality. Each user is issued a unique ID and password to securely access only the appropriate level of the registry.

Immunization providers access the system to determine the immunization level of their patients and their practice. Authorized users have direct real-time access to the MCIR through the MCIR Web application. Public health officials utilize data from the system to determine the overall state of immunizations and to target immunization campaigns when necessary.

The State is divided into six MCIR regions with regional staff responsible for administering specific counties within the State. The regional staff assists public health agencies and private providers in utilizing the system. At the State level the registry is administered by the Michigan Department of Community Health's Division of Immunization.

The MCIR is linked with several other State of Michigan agency systems, including:

MDCH is currently pursuing opportunities for linking the MCIR with other Population-based Health Databases, including Newborn Hearing and Newborn Metabolic Screening.