Voluntary reporting of health care personnel seasonal influenza vaccination rates and the impact of universal policies in Illinois hospitals

Abstract

ObjectiveIn 2009, voluntary public reporting of hospital health care personnel (HCP) vaccination rates began in Illinois. We describe our experience over 3 influenza seasons and examine the impact universal policies have had on performance. MethodsA secure website was used to report monthly HCP vaccination rates by each participating hospital. Overall and individual hospital performance was publicly reported each month. ResultsIn the first two seasons, there were 11 hospitals reporting with an average end of season rate of 76% (2009–2010) and 81% (2010–2011). In the 2011–2012 season, there were 22 hospitals reporting, 9 of which had a new universal policy for HCP influenza vaccination. The average 2011–2012 end of season rate was 72% for hospitals with a voluntary program and 95% for hospitals with a universal policy. HCP were also vaccinated earlier in the influenza season when a universal policy was in place, providing greater benefit over time. ConclusionPublic reporting of HCP influenza vaccination rates may contribute to implementation of universal employee vaccination policies. Hospitals with universal policies have higher vaccination rates than those with voluntary vaccination programs.