The Role of Intern Pharmacists in Implementing Innovative and Sustainable Practices to Enhance Rates of Non-influenza Immunizations

Abstract

Background Intern pharmacists are likely an underutilized resource for addressing immunization barriers and improving immunization rates. Studies have addressed methods that pharmacists use to improve immunization rates, but few have focused on the role of intern pharmacists, with particular emphasis on non-influenza immunizations. Methods An online survey was distributed through email listservs associated with California pharmacy schools and organizations. Data collected included title (“pharmacist” or “intern pharmacist”), practice setting, perceptions of the intern pharmacists’ role in improving immunization rates (strongly agree to strongly disagree using a 5-point Likert scale), and opinions regarding potential implementations. Immunization barriers were assessed using a 9-point scale, from least to most feasible to be addressed. Statistical comparisons between intern pharmacist and pharmacist responses were made using chi-square or Fisher’s exact tests. Results A total of 133 respondents completed the survey. The immunization barrier most likely to be successfully overcome by intern pharmacists was lack of patient awareness. There was strong support in favor of intern pharmacists having greater involvement in programs that increase patient non-influenza immunization rates. The two most feasible implementations by intern pharmacists were determined to be intern-led college/university campus clinics providing free non-influenza immunizations and educational booths/outreaches that raise awareness about immunizations. Conclusion Identification of immunization barriers capable of being addressed by intern pharmacists and effective intern pharmacist-led initiatives may contribute to enhanced immunization outcomes. Future steps include the implementation of intern pharmacist-led activities and further evaluation of whether these intern pharmacist-specific initiatives contribute to increasing non-influenza immunizations.