Every year tens of thousands of adults needlessly suffer, are hospitalized and even die as a result of diseases that could be prevented by vaccines¹.
While adults believe immunization is important, a recent national survey showed that most adults are not aware that they need vaccines throughout their lives to protect against diseases like shingles, pertussis and hepatitis. As a healthcare professional, patients trust you to give them the best advice on how to protect their health.
“August is National Immunization Awareness Month; a perfect time for clinicians to increase awareness about the benefits of vaccination as it coincides with the beginning of the flu season. A strong provider recommendation has been shown to be a key factor in encouraging vaccinations. Raising awareness by promoting immunizations throughout the month of August is one such mechanism,” stated Keri McDermott; Communications Director for the Great Plains Quality Innovation Network.
Your recommendation is a critical factor in whether your patients receive the vaccines that they need. Research indicates that most adults believe that vaccines are important and are likely to receive them if recommended by their healthcare professional.
The CDC has developed a number of resources you can share with adults and healthcare professionals to promote adult immunization including posters/flyers, fact sheets, ready to publish articles, radio PSAs, print ads in various sizes and web buttons to link to CDC web content. http://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/adults/forpartners
The Medscape Foundation has developed a video presentation with three case examples of evidence-based strategies and tips on strengthening vaccine recommendations including information that can help patients make informed decisions. Access the training module
Don’t forget to download the NIAM toolkit for comprehensive messaging guidelines and content related to this year’s observance: https://www.nphic.org/niam
Source: National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases
Upcoming WebEx Opportunity
Give Just the Vaccine – hosted by the Great Plains Quality Innovation Network
August 23, 2017
12 – 1:00 p.m. (CT)
Overview: Administering vaccinations correctly is a vital part of the healthcare professionals role. This WebEx will focus on how to give injections safely, while focusing on the process of vaccine administration, safe handling and storage.
All healthcare providers and settings that administer vaccines, physicians, nurses, pharmacists; any medical staff in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, home health agencies and pharmacies are welcome to attend.
This event has been approved for 1.0 hour of Continuing Education credit through the North Dakota Board of Nursing.
Visit our Web site to learn more and to register.