The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recently changed the process for documenting immunizations and the forms that should be used. Effective immediately, providers should discontinue use of the previous Michigan-specific Vaccine Information Statement (VIS) forms and transition to using CDC-issued VIS documents and the new Michigan Care Improvement Registry (MCIR) Immunization Notice Form.
What Is Changing?
Previously, providers used a Michigan-specific VIS form, which included language about MCIR reporting. Under the updated process, that information has been split into a standalone MCIR Immunization Notice Form, separate from the VIS form. Providers must now:
- Provide the appropriate CDC VIS for every vaccine administered (instead of a Michigan-specific form).
- Provide the MCIR Immunization Notice Form at every immunization encounter.
- Continue documenting VIS-related requirements in the patient’s medical record.
The updated process does not eliminate existing VIS requirements. Providers must continue providing VIS documents for every vaccine administered while also supplying the MCIR Immunization Notice Form at each vaccination encounter.
The MCIR Immunization Notice Form is not the MCIR opt-out form. It is simply an acknowledgment that vaccine information will be entered into MCIR and that the patient, parent, guardian or person in loco parentis has been informed of their rights. Individuals wishing to opt out must complete the separate MCIR opt-out process.
Flexibility in How Forms Are Provided
Providers do have flexibility in how they distribute the VIS and MCIR Notice Forms. Forms may be provided:
- On paper.
- Electronically through a patient portal or electronic medical record.
- Via computer or tablet display.
- Through QR code or web-based access.
- Using other methods consistent with office policy.
Operational Considerations
Because the new process adds an additional document to each immunization encounter, organizations should review their workflows promptly to ensure compliance and educate staff on the new process.
Implementation Expectations
MDHHS has advised providers to begin implementing the new process immediately. Michigan-specific VIS forms should be discarded and replaced with current CDC VIS materials and the MCIR Immunization Notice Form.
Members are encouraged to utilize available resources provided by MDHHS, including a dedicated webpage containing:
- CDC VIS resources.
- VIS translations.
- MCIR Immunization Notice Form (English and Spanish).
- FAQ documents.
- Training slides and webinar recordings.
Members with questions should contact Kelsey Ostergren at the MHA.