Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are a set of general instructions that describe who, what, where, when and how to operate in a functional area. Wherever you work in the medical field, you can expect to find an SOP. If your immunization clinic doesn't have one or wants to improve its current one, you can use the section titles below to begin to build your SOP templates. The key topics are:

• References: Where you got your guidance.
• Purpose: Why you have the SOP.
• Scope: What areas or populations the SOP pertains to.
• Responsibilities: Who is responsible for each task.
• Procedures: How to perform a given task.

A thorough SOP will enable a medically trained individual from another facility to perform a task according to local standards using your procedure.

Hint: Keep it simple. If you can’t understand it, it won’t help anyone who comes in to perform the same job you do.

SOP Q&A

How can I get help with my SOPs?

Please contact your IHD Immunization Healthcare Specialist with any questions regarding Standard Operating Procedures, or you can contact the quality-improvement professionals at your facility.

How often & who should review our Clinic SOPs?

The Medical Director at your facility should review your clinic’s SOPs annually and update them as appropriate. Staff should document their annual review of SOPs in their Personal Competency Assessment File.

How can I submit my SOP to Immunization University?

If you think you have a good SOP (or a better SOP) and would like to share it with others around the world, please send your e-files to the IHD via email or mail them to the Immunization Healthcare Division:

Immunization Healthcare Division (IHD)
7700 Arlington Blvd.
Falls Church, VA 22042-5143

For more information:

• 1-877-GETVACC (438-8222)
• 761-4245 DSN
• 1-703-681-7541 FAX