Improved influenza vaccination rates in a rural population as a result of a pharmacist-managed immunization campaign.

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To increase the rate of influenza vaccinations in high-risk patients by means of a pharmacist-managed immunization campaign.

DESIGN

Unblinded, single intervention.

SETTING

Rural primary care clinic.

PATIENTS

Six hundred fifty-seven patients at high risk for contracting influenza according to criteria established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

INTERVENTION

High-risk patients identified by chart review were mailed an education packet on influenza immunization. Vaccinations were given in specially designated clinics and during routine clinic visits. Campaign success and reasons why patients remained unvaccinated were determined by follow-up surveys.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The influenza vaccination rate increased from 28% at baseline (before program initiation) to 54% after program initiation. Unvaccinated patients were younger and resided in more urban areas than vaccinated patients; vaccinated patients had a higher frequency of cardiovascular disease or diabetes mellitus. Vaccinated patients consistently identified the education packet and their health care providers as primary motivators for vaccination.

CONCLUSION

Our pharmacist-managed vaccine program increased the influenza immunization rate in high-risk patients.