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AIMing to Inform


Jan 11, 2023

Learn how immunization managers best leverage their immunization information systems (IIS) to improve vaccination rates. In this episode, North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services Immunization Director and Assistant Section Chief of Disease Control Molly Howell and AIM Data Project Manager Kristy Westfall share insight into their successes with IIS. Making use of IIS data is one of the best ways to streamline program operations, pinpoint vaccine deserts, and guide real-time decisions for all vaccines and age groups. Tune in for  resourceful ideas on how to use your state’s IIS.

About Molly:

Molly Howell is currently the Immunization Director and Assistant Section Chief of Disease Control at the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services (NDDoH). Molly has worked in the field of immunization for the past 19 years. As Immunization Director, she oversees the implementation of immunization policies and activities in North Dakota, including evidence-based activities to increase immunization coverage rates, healthcare provider education, surveillance, and implementation of the North Dakota Immunization Information System (NDIIS). Molly has a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from the University of Nebraska – Lincoln and a Master of Public Health degree from the University of Massachusetts – Amherst.

Molly is an active member of the Association of Immunization Managers (AIM) and previously served as Chair of the organization. She is currently a member of the executive committee and AIM's liaison to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. In January 2020, Molly was appointed to the National Vaccine Advisory Committee.

She has previously published immunization and infectious disease-related articles in Public Health Reports, the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, Travel Medicine and Infectious Disease, Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, and the New England Journal of Medicine.

 

About Kristy Westfall: 

As Data Project Manager, Kristy supports AIM members in immunization information systems  and data exchange. Prior to joining AIM, she worked with the Wyoming Department of Health Immunization Unit for eight years in various roles, including as the VFC Coordinator and the IIS Manager. Kristy is a Certified Public Manager and earned associate degrees in Computer Networking Systems and Business Administration. She has worked in public health for over 13 years.

 

Links: 

North Dakota Health & Human Services

Association of Immunization Managers

NDHHS Twitter