A policy analysis of strategies to develop a pan-Canadian immunization data repository

The roll out of COVID-19 vaccines in Canada was the largest mass health intervention in the country's history. The roll-out also demonstrated the need for improved health data and information systems which are critical for the success of the immunization programs. Immunization registries are a key mechanism for collecting relevant immunization data. Developing a pan-Canadian immunization information system has faced challenges over the decades with data collection, information sharing agreements, and data standardizations. With the emergence of COVID-19, Canada has an urgent need for improved immunization information systems. This need will only grow with the emergence of new vaccines for all age groups. This project will help Canada fill this urgent need by first describing and analyzing the current immunization registry landscape. Based on this analysis, and the engagement of various stakeholders, we will draft a report proposing various policy options, with their advantages and disadvantages, to provide advice on how to fill the current gaps in pan-Canadian immunization data collection.