Improving influenza immunisation coverage in 2000-2001: a baseline survey, review of the evidence and sharing of best practice.
In May 2000 a new government target of 70% uptake in people aged 65 and over was introduced for influenza immunisation, with a minimum of 60% uptake in 2000-2001. A postal survey of influenza immunisation coverage in over 75 year olds during 1999-2000 was undertaken in our district's general practices. The evidence on interventions which improve coverage was compared to local practice. General Practitioners and their Primary Care Groups/Trust received feedback on their performance, and best practice was shared. The findings were used to inform the immunisation campaign for 2000-01. The survey response rate was 74%. The district coverage was 50%, ranging from 7% to 97% between practices. Practices achieving high coverage rates combined good patient identification with personalised patient invitation and well-organised clinics. The work that went on in the district achieved an overall influenza immunisation coverage of 62% in 2000-01.
Furey
A
A
Merton Sutton and Wandsworth Health Authority, The Wilson, Cranmer Road, Mitcham CR4 4TP. enquiries@mswha.sthames.nhs.uk
Robinson
E
E
Young
Y
Y
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D019985:Benchmarking; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D005194:Family Practice / Q000592:standards*; D006284:Health Plan Implementation; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D017589:Immunization Programs / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000517:prevention & control*; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011159:Population Surveillance; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians' / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000592:standards; D017064:Process Assessment, Health Care; D006113:United Kingdom / Q000453:epidemiology
D007252:Influenza Vaccines