Evaluation of a legislatively mandated influenza vaccination program for adults in Rhode Island, USA.
BACKGROUND
There have been disruptions in influenza vaccine supply in the United States during the 2000-2001, 2001-2002, 2004-2005, and 2005-2006 influenza seasons. Some providers received limited or no vaccine, while others obtained their order in full, depending on with whom the order was placed. A state law was passed that mandates the Rhode Island Department of Health to include the purchase and distribution of influenza vaccine for adults in its immunization program.


OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the first 2 years of the statewide adult influenza immunization program.


METHODS
We conducted key informant interviews of 25 providers in 2008 and surveyed all enrolled providers in 2008 (year 1) and 2009 (year 2).


METHODS
State of Rhode Island.


METHODS
Physician practices and facilities that provide influenza vaccination to adults, including private practices, nursing homes, health centers, urgent care facilities, hospitals, mass immunizers, and businesses.


METHODS
Enrolled providers received influenza vaccines free and billed insurers, Medicare, and Medicaid for vaccine administration costs.


METHODS
Provider satisfaction with different program components and overall satisfaction.


RESULTS
For year 1, there was higher satisfaction with enrollment, training, vaccine ordering, and vaccine shipment than with paperwork and claims. Of the survey respondents, 71% reported that the program paperwork was reasonable and 30% reported difficulties in receiving reimbursement. Satisfaction with the vaccination start date of October 17, 2007, was 80%. There was high overall satisfaction (94%). In response to streamlining of reporting requirements and setting an earlier start date of October 7, 2008, for year 2, there was a significant increase in satisfaction with paperwork (89%) and with vaccination start date (90%).


CONCLUSIONS
The findings may be useful in guiding the development of vaccination programs to provide influenza and other vaccines for adults at the state or national level.
Ahmed
Faruque
F
Immunization Services Division, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, GA 30333, USA. fahmed@cdc.gov
Paine
Virginia
V
Zhang
Fan
F
Gary
Edith
E
Lindley
Megan C
MC
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007252:Influenza Vaccines / Q000592:standards*; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000517:prevention & control*; D007883:Legislation, Medical; D008297:Male; D037141:Mandatory Programs / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D015397:Program Evaluation; D012237:Rhode Island
D007252:Influenza Vaccines