The main components of an EPI review are a
desk review and field review. The EPI
review is led by an external person who guides the entire process. The desk review, which occurs first involves
a review of all relevant program documents to identify past recommendations and
provides a current status check. A
concept note is then developed from this review which includes both the desk
review findings and detailed methodology for a field review. The field review involves visits at all
administrative levels by teams of paired external experts and relevant internal
staff to assess the system. The teams collect
and analyze data, develop the report and provide recommendations. They will debrief the ICC and submit a report
and presentation to the national health authorities. The national health authorities will approve
the report and, in conjunction with the ICC, disseminate the report to all relevant
stakeholders. This report is then utilized
by EPI staff for updating plans of action.
An important and required component of an
EPI review is its involvement of external experts, who can review the system
independent of any internal influence and usually have extensive experience
with multiple country immunization programs which is useful in recognizing
strengths and challenges and developing practical recommendations. These experts work alongside country immunization
staff during the field data collection and latter phases of the EPI review and
these interactions can also provide excellent learning opportunities.
Findings from an EPI review are to be used to
improve the program’s public health effectiveness. Immunization program
management and staff, led by the ICC, are to use the EPI review findings and
recommendations to update plans of action such as the Comprehensive Multi-Year
Plan (CMYP) and advocate for additional funding where needed. A follow-up mechanism, such as an internal
desk review, should be conducted 12-18 months after the review to assess the
status of the recommendations made in the review. This follow-up activity should be considered
and, if needed, coordinated by the ICC
