To read this content please select one of the options below:

Improving immunization practices in United States hospitals and health systems

Wesley D. Kufel (Department of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina Medical Center, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA)
Dennis M. Williams (Division of Pharmacotherapy and Experimental Therapeutics, University of North Carolina Eshelman School of Pharmacy, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA)
David Jay Weber (Division of Infectious Diseases, University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA)

International Journal of Health Governance

ISSN: 2059-4631

Article publication date: 4 September 2017

413

Abstract

Purpose

Payment for healthcare services in the USA has shifted from fee for service to compensation based on value and quality. The indicators used for payments are a variety of clinical measures, including administration of vaccines to patients. The purpose of this paper is to describe the implementation of programs in health systems to improve vaccination rates and patient outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

A search of the literature was conducted to find examples of vaccine programs in US health systems, and also to identify policies to improve immunization rates.

Findings

Successful programs for improving vaccination rates require advocacy and support of leadership, a systematic and multidisciplinary approach, and an evaluation of local resources and capacity. Numerous examples exist of medical, nursing, and pharmacy led programs that improve vaccination rates. The department in charge has relied on the support of other groups to ensure the success.

Social implications

Mandatory vaccination of healthcare personnel (HCP) in the health system has been a growing trend in the USA. Although there has been some resistance to mandatory vaccinations for HCP, the standards and requirements have resulted in improved rates in health systems, which ultimately improve efficiency and protects patients.

Originality/value

This review describes considerations for implementing a successful vaccination program in a health system and provides examples of specific strategies. An overview of mandatory vaccinations for HCP is also described.

Keywords

Citation

Kufel, W.D., M. Williams, D. and Weber, D.J. (2017), "Improving immunization practices in United States hospitals and health systems", International Journal of Health Governance, Vol. 22 No. 3, pp. 199-211. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJHG-06-2017-0028

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2017, Emerald Publishing Limited

Related articles