ImmTrac2 FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions for Providers and Organizations (FAQ)
Why have an immunization registry?
- The American Academy of Pediatrics supports public and private cooperation in developing an immunization registry when it benefits children.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says a state-based immunization information system is essential for reaching and sustaining coverage levels and recommends vaccination providers participate in these systems whenever possible.
- The immunization schedule is confusing to parents. A registry helps to keep parents informed about when their children need vaccines.
- Because parents can’t locate vaccine records and many children are over-immunized.
- The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) may be able to identify areas in Texas with low vaccination rates and focus outreach activities in those communities.
Why use ImmTrac2 as your registry?
- ImmTrac2 allows providers to search for immunization histories on new patients who have changed physicians or moved into a new community.
- ImmTrac2 assists with lost or difficult-to-interpret records.
- ImmTrac2 sends reminder and recall notices of pending or overdue immunizations.
Where can I find updated patient consent forms for ImmTrac2?
ImmTrac2 consent forms are in Forms and Documents. You can prepopulate and print new consent forms directly in the ImmTrac2 system.
Registered ImmTrac2 users may use their existing supply of consent forms before ordering new ones.
How do I get started as a provider?
To register as an authorized ImmTrac2 organization, download the documents from Forms and Documents. Find webinars and PowerPoint presentations in Training.
- ImmTrac2 Provider Online Enrollment Manual
Information about registration for new ImmTrac2 users and the renewal process for existing users. - ImmTrac2 Implementation Guide for Immunization Messaging: HL7 Version 2.5.1.
Provides specifications, standards, and examples for creating HL7 2.5.1 messages for data submissions for ImmTrac2. ImmTrac2 users should share the implementation guide with their EHR vendors. - ImmTrac2 User Manual
Provides in-depth information and step-by-step instructions on using the registry. Includes updating a client’s immunization history, affirming consent, and running and printing a variety of reports. - ImmTrac2 Webinars and PowerPoint Presentations
ImmTrac2 system overview and specific webinars for viewing, adding, updating, and other functions involving clients and immunizations.
Who can import immunization data into ImmTrac2?
If authorized, providers and payors who electronically import immunization data into ImmTrac2 must comply with the ImmTrac Electronic Transfer Standards (ETS). Providers submitting HL7-formatted immunization (VXU) messages to ImmTrac2 must do so via certified HER technology. Visit CMS.gov for more information.
You can submit immunization data to ImmTrac2 various ways:
- Submit files ImmTrac2 via encrypted File Transfer Protocol (FTP).
- Medicaid and CHIP submit client data to HHSC electronically via the ImmTrac2 HHSC Interface.
- Health plans can submit data for multiple clients via secure download or encrypted FTP.
- Single client searching and generation of immunization histories are available to payors online via the ImmTrac2 web application.
Does ImmTrac2 support Meaningful Use?
Yes, ImmTrac2 supports eligible hospitals (EHs), eligible providers (EPs), and critical access hospitals (CAHs) participating in the Centers for Medicaid and Medicare (CMS) EHR Incentive Program.
Eligible participants wishing to exchange data with ImmTrac2 must first complete an ImmTrac2 Site Agreement and then submit a Registration of Intent to pursue Meaningful Use with the registry.
For more information, please contact ImmTracMU@dshs.texas.gov.
Are there any changes to the electronic reporting process?
The Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) electronic reporting process remains the same. Providers can continue to import files via the secure SFTP using their organization’s assigned FTP login credentials.
Are other HL7 versions beyond 2.5.1 accepted by ImmTrac2?
In addition to HL7 Version 2.5.1, ImmTrac2 accepts file messaging using HL7 versions 2.3.1 and 2.4. ImmTrac2 accepts flat file messaging.
DSHS encourages new users to comply with HL7 file messaging using HL7 versions 2.3.1 and 2.4.
What browsers are compatible with ImmTrac2?
Internet Explorer 11 is compatible with ImmTrac2.