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MANILA, PHILIPPINES [TAC] – DigiVace, a set of digital applications designed to replace paper-based immunization records of children, was launched by the Department of Health (DOH) and UNICEF Philippines, with funding from the Government of Japan.
As a faster and more effective way of tracking immunization data, DigiVacc helps ensure that every child in the Philippines is fully immunized and protected against diseases.
DigiVacc is set to help address challenges in immunization data management, including inefficiencies in paper-based data recording, incomplete or delayed reports, limited data collection from private health facilities, gaps in tracking immunization visits, and finding children who missed out on vaccine doses.
More importantly, it addresses the problem of parents losing their child’s vaccination record, or health centers missing critical information when records are destroyed, or when health workers retire or resign.
With near real-time access to data, DigiVacc enables effective monitoring of children’s immunization coverage, helping detect trends and bottlenecks to strengthen service delivery and decision-making. It has two component applications to connect caregivers and health workers.
The first is VaccTrace, a provider-facing web service and mobile application helping health workers digitally record immunization services and track coverage within their designated area. It allows for faster monitoring of vaccination status, automatic report generation, and set-up of automated text reminders on mobile to caregivers. With offline functionality, health workers can record their immunization services even in areas without internet access.
The other one is VaccCheck, a patient-facing mobile application enabling parents or caregivers to view and download their children’s immunization records anytime, anywhere. With features like progress tracking, digital access to recommended vaccine schedules, and reminders for upcoming or missed vaccinations, caregivers can make informed decisions and ensure their children stay protected.
“The Government of Japan remains steadfast in its support for digital transformation in the healthcare sector. We are proud to support this project and hopeful that it will help close the gaps in traditional immunization data collection, leading to better planning at both local and national levels. With easier immunization recording and tracking, I believe health workers, caregivers, and parents will be better equipped to make informed decisions and ensure children stay protected,” said Dr. Aoki Fumiko, Embassy of Japan in the Philippines First Secretary and Health Attache.
“All children have a right to health. Vaccinated children perform better at school, with economic benefits that ripple across their communities and advancing national welfare,” said Edgar Donoso Paz, UNICEF Philippines Acting Representative.
DigiVacc will initially be deployed in 13 local government units across the Philippines. More information about the VaccTrace and VaccCheck, including download details, are available at www.digivacc.ph.
