Keeping up-to-date on immunizations: a framework and review for pharmacists.

OBJECTIVE

To provide a framework for keeping current in the immunizations field; an update on changes in adult and pediatric vaccine delivery since 2003; and an update on new immunization guidelines, new approved vaccines, and changes in uses for current vaccines.

DATA SOURCES

Published guidelines identified from the Centers for Disease Control National Immunization Program Web site. In addition, published articles were identified through Medline (January 2003-November 2005) using specific vaccine names as search terms. Additional sources were identified from the bibliographies of retrieved articles.

STUDY SELECTION

By the authors.

DATA EXTRACTION

By the authors.

DATA SYNTHESIS

To implement the immunization services now permitted under law in 44 states, many pharmacists receive initial training through the American Pharmacists Association Pharmacy-Based Immunization Delivery CERTIFICATE PROGRAM. To remain up-to-date in this field, pharmacists can apply the process described in this article, which includes regular monitoring of the Web site and publications of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and participation in one or more listservs. Specific information is presented on new vaccines marketed in the United States since 2003 along with updates on standards for adult and adolescent immunizations and changes in guidelines during this time frame.

CONCLUSION

As increasingly committed health professionals in the immunizations field, pharmacists are responsible for keeping updated on the constantly changing recommendations for vaccines and related products. By incorporating the recent information presented in this article and applying the process described for tracking changes in this field, pharmacists can fulfill their emerging vaccine-related roles on the health care team.