Clinical practice and public policy for influenza and pneumococcal vaccination of the elderly.

Influenza and pneumococcal vaccines are safe, effective, and cost-effective, but they are not used widely. Organized programs for vaccine delivery can lead to substantial improvements in vaccination rates for the elderly. Adequate reimbursement by Medicare and other third-party payers needs to be supplemented by educational programs to promote influenza and pneumococcal vaccines if the opportunity vaccination presents to improve the health and well-being of elderly persons is to be fully realized.