A target-based model for increasing influenza immunizations in private practice. Genesee Hospital Medical Staff.
OBJECTIVE
To measure the impact of a population-based tracking system on influenza immunization rates.


METHODS
Thirteen practices with 45 physicians were randomized to a control and two intervention groups.


METHODS
Private practices.


METHODS
All patients aged 65 years and over who were seen in participating physicians' practices within the preceding two years.


METHODS
In both intervention groups influenza immunization rates for physicians were recorded weekly as cumulative percentages of their target populations, using a specially prepared poster. In addition, postcard reminders were sent to all the patients in one of the intervention groups.


RESULTS
Immunization rates in the two intervention groups were 30% higher than in the control group; the control group immunized 50% (2,405/4,772) of its target population, while the poster and poster/postcard groups immunized 66% (1,420/2,149) and 67% (2,427/3,604), respectively.


CONCLUSIONS
A population-based strategy that monitors performance can significantly improve rates of influenza immunization in private practices.
Buffington
J
J
Department of Medicine, Genesee Hospital, Rochester, NY 14607.
Bell
K M
KM
LaForce
F M
FM
D000368:Aged; D004282:Documentation / Q000379:methods; D006801:Humans; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000517:prevention & control*; D015233:Models, Statistical; D011331:Private Practice; D014611:Vaccination / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*