Patient characteristics associated with the use of pharmacist-administered vaccination services and predictors of service utilization

Abstract

Data on the impact of pharmacists as vaccinators are available; however, research on understanding the characteristics of users of pharmacist-administered vaccinations is scarce. This study aimed to identify the characteristics of the users of pharmacist-administered vaccinations and recognize predictors of utilizing these services. Data were obtained from a cross-sectional online survey, and the sample size was 26,173 respondents from all over the United States. The outcome measure was the previous use of pharmacist-administered vaccination. Independent variables were demographic factors, health-related factors, and previous utilization of pharmacy products and services. Chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the factors associated with the use of this service. P values, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% CIs were computed and reported. About 31% of respondents reported previous use of pharmacist-administered vaccination. The gender of respondents was mainly female (71.2%), and the race was mainly white (80.7%). Chi-square analysis showed a statisticallysignificant association of service use with age, education, geographic region, use of other pharmacy services and products, type of pharmacy, and the number of chronic diseases (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed a statisticallysignificant association with the number of chronic diseases (OR 1.085 [95% CI 1.049-1.122]), level of education (1.352 [1.35-1.28]), race (0.901 [0.840-0.969]), and proximity to pharmacy (0.995 [0.992-0.997]). Age, type of pharmacy, and previous use of other pharmacist-provided services and products also showed statisticallysignificant associations (P < 0.05). The use of pharmacist-administered vaccination has been increasing over the past years. The service has many advantages compared with other vaccination service providers and associated with higher vaccination rates among people with older age, higher education, and a higher number of chronic diseases. With proper training and education, pharmacists are unique in improving vaccination services and public health in general.