Table 4

Proposed Areas of Additional Research

1. Integration and collaboration

▪ How feasible and cost-effective is it to integrate other services with routine immunizations?

▪ In what circumstances should integrated programs be considered?

▪ What are optimal services or packages of services to integrate with routine immunizations?

▪ Can an increased role for private providers and non-governmental organizations strengthen routine immunization services?

▪ Can additional groups (i.e. local service groups) be used to promote routine immunizations by providing positive immunization messages and long-term communication?

▪ Can increased involvement of civil society organizations at each level also improve accountability, service delivery and coverage?

▪ How best to work with partners to improve overall service delivery and thus strengthen routine immunization services?

2. New Vaccine Introduction

▪ What are the barriers to the introduction of new vaccines at community and facility level, and how can these be overcome?

3. Service Delivery

▪ What are the benefits of supportive supervision?

▪ How can a supportive supervision environment be created?

▪ What are the best roles for community volunteers?

▪ What are potential roles for existing community and leadership structures (not just volunteers)?

▪ What are predictors of sustainability for volunteer-based programs?

Ryman et al. BMC Health Services Research 2008 8:134   doi:10.1186/1472-6963-8-134