Improving pneumococcal vaccination rates: a three-step approach.
BACKGROUND
Streptococcus pneumoniae is the cause of significant preventable morbidity and mortality each year, especially among the elderly. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a three-step strategy to improve pneumococcal vaccination rates in patients ages 65 and older.


METHODS
We obtained a baseline vaccination rate by chart review of a randomized list of patients ages 65 and older. Interventions that included physician education, a system of office prompts, and patient education were instituted for 1 year. We performed a second chart review to determine the success of the intervention.


RESULTS
Vaccination rates increased significantly from 56.7% to 75.8%. No significant difference in initial vaccination rates between men and women was found. Although rates improved for both men and women, only the increase in vaccination for men was significant.


CONCLUSIONS
This study shows that an easy and inexpensive intervention can substantially impact pneumococcal vaccination rates. Specifically, a three-step approach that combines provider education, office prompts, and patient education has proven effective.
Redfield
J R
JR
jredfiel@macneal.com
Wang
T W
TW
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001428:Bacterial Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017589:Immunization Programs / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011008:Pneumococcal Infections / Q000517:prevention & control*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic
D001428:Bacterial Vaccines