INCREASING THE PERCENTAGE OF PATIENTS THAT RECEIVE THE INFLUENZA VACCINE IN ALLERGY SHOT CLINICS

Abstract

<h3>Introduction</h3> Vaccinations are a critical component of routine healthcare, and studies reveal that patients are more likely to receive vaccinations when they are recommended by a medical provider. In the US, annual influenza vaccine rates were 48.4% during the 2019-20 influenza season and 50.2% during the 2020-21 influenza season. The US Healthy People 2030 target goal is 70%. <h3>Methods</h3> As part of a quality improvement program during the COVID-19 pandemic, subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) patients were screened at every injection visit for administration of the 2021-22 influenza vaccine. A sticker was placed in the injection room to remind staff to assess status. Vaccine currency was documented on the patients' injection record. The vaccination rate for the 2020-21 flu season was compared to the vaccination rate for the 2021-22 flu season. <h3>Results</h3> 175 patients (172 SCIT and 3 biologic) were given injections and screened for the influenza vaccine during the period of September 1, 2021 to May 24, 2022. Of the 175 patients, 87.4% of patients received the influenza vaccination (153 vaccinated and 22 declined). The 2020-21 vaccination rate in the clinic was 91.7%. <h3>Conclusion</h3> Allergy clinics have a captive audience in their injection rooms with SCIT patients to screen for the influenza vaccine. Our simple screening program resulted in an unprecedented influenza vaccination rate of 87.4% during the 2021-22 influenza season and 91.7% during the 2020-21 influenza season. Each year, our program produced an influenza vaccination rate nearly double the national average. Allergists should consider implementing a similar injection room system for influenza vaccine screening.