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Randomized Trial of a Program to Increase Staff Influenza Vaccination in Primary Care Clinics
Zvi Howard Abramson , and colleagues
Background Health care workers are a high-priority group for receiving influenza vaccinations because of their proximity to patients, but they have low immunization rates. This study looks at the effects of a promotional and educational program on raising influenza vaccination rates among primary care clinic staff. The program included an educational session, e-mail reminders, literature distribution, and personal reminders from a key staff member.
What This Study Found The program produced a substantial increase in influenza vaccinations among health care workers. Staff immunization rates doubled in clinics that received the program, compared to other clinics. It was successful among both individuals who had been immunized the previous season and those who had not.
Implications
- The program's success may be the result of raising the issue of immunization repeatedly and using a variety of educational and promotional methods.
- This simple program can easily be replicated in other primary care offices, and could lead to a substantial increase in influenza immunization rates.