Improving pneumococcal vaccination rates: a three-step approach.

Abstract

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.