Head Start and Centers for Disease Control Collaboration
By Robin Brocato, MHS, Health Services Specialist, Head Start Bureau
During the past three years, the Head Start Bureau and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Immunization Program have been working together on the issue of immunizations. This collaboration, still in its informal stage, is due in part to the similar focus both programs have on prevention and early intervention.The CDC has provided technical assistance to the Head Start Bureau about State immunization requirements and national, State, and local immunization resources. The CDC has also provided State health departments with Head Start's immunization requirements, and has encouraged them to work with Head Start programs to provide immunizations according to the Head Start immunization schedule.
Working with Head Start helps the CDC to get its message across about the importance of immunization to large numbers of families that depend on the public sector for health care services. Head Start and Early Head Start programs provide local health departments with feedback on successful strategies, such as having after-hour clinics or providing parents with clear written information on childhood immunizations. This collaboration between Head Start and CDC will continue to be strengthened on all levels as the 21st Century approaches.