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Practice Commentary
Gerald J. Jogerst, MD
Arch Fam Med. 1997;6(2):163.
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| Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text PDF and any section headings. |
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Influenza vaccine given to chronically debilitated, institutionalized populations provides protection rates in the range of 60% to 90% for pneumonia, hospitalization, and deaths.1 Despite these outstanding results, influenza vaccinations, although increasing, are given to fewer than half of high-risk populations each year. More effective strategies are needed in providing vaccines to persons at high risk, and the family physician is in a position to take a leadership role in coordinating vaccine administration. The Dutch College of Family Physicians influenza vaccination guidelines provide a practical approach to influence increased vaccination rates.2 These guidelines target patients with chronic diseases and debility that would make them more susceptible to influenza and its multiple complications. Emphasis is placed on developing a systematic approach that identifies at-risk patients, that organizes a set office vaccination policy, sends mail prompts to all atrisk patients, and does not depend on physician initiation. It is encouraging
. . . [Full Text PDF of this Article]
Author Affiliations
The University of Iowa Iowa City, Iowa
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