Use of alternative childhood immunization schedules in King County, Washington, USA

Abstract

Objective: To determine the percentage of parents in King County, Washington using an alternative childhood immunization schedule (ACIS) and the type of ACIS used. Patient and Methods: We distributed self-administered surveys to parents at 5 practices regarding the immunization schedule they planned to use or were using. Parents who selected an ACIS were asked to describe its main characteristics and information source. Results: We received 517 surveys and included 502 in analysis. The percentage of parents using an ACIS was 9.4% (95% CI: 7%, 12.2%). Only 6% described their ACIS as the Dr. Sears Schedule, although the book in which it is featured was the most frequently cited ACIS information source (29%). There was a significant association between ACIS use and non-Hispanic white parents and parents of children 12-23 months old. Conclusion(s): A minority of King County parents use an ACIS. The Dr. Sears Schedule does not predominate. © 2013 Elsevier Ltd.