Digital Covid-19 Vaccine Records

Every state in the US maintains an immunization registry (also known as an “immunization information system”, or IIS for short), where every COVID-19 vaccination is required by federal law to be reported. Yet, there is no standard way for these records to be shared with vaccinated individuals.

By releasing the DCVR solution’s code to the public domain, the state of California hoped to reduce the costs associated with implementing a similar system in other states. In California, the cost of the DCVR is estimated to be well below $0.50/year per vaccinated individual for the DCVR. Each additional state that commits to using a similar system increases the value of this emerging standard – and helps create a common approach to vaccination verification. Individuals accustomed to presenting their DCVR in one community can do so in any other location where DCVRs are commonly accepted.

The one-time use of American Rescue Plan Act (ARP) funds is well-suited for providing DCVRs to residents because 1) Most of the cost is paid upfront, while ongoing costs are low; 2) DCVRs support public health goals and will help kick-start and sustain economic activity; 3) SMART Health Cards provide a straightforward and easy way to implement technology to issue verifiable, trustworthy records of vaccination to help meet vaccine mandates; and, 4) An effective verification mechanism provides a stronger incentive for vaccination, resulting in reduced hospitalizations and deaths.