Increasing older persons’ immunization rates is the focus of a recent UVA Health study

Charlottesville, Virginia – A novel strategy for increasing older persons’ immunization rates has been discovered by a recent study conducted by the University of Virginia School of Medicine.

Only 15% of Americans 50 and older and 25% of Americans 65 and older, according to UVA Health, are current on all advised vaccinations, including those for shingles, the flu, RSV, tetanus, and pneumococcal disease.

In order to test the novel strategy, UVA Health collaborated with six primary care clinics throughout the United States. Sixty percent of the 116 patients polled stated that, before to taking part in the study, they had not routinely discussed vaccination-related obstacles with their doctor.

Knowing which immunizations were required, paying for them, remembering when they were due, worrying about side effects, and finding transportation to get a shot were the most often mentioned obstacles, according to UVA Health.

As part of the study, we developed a tool for collective decision-making. This was a piece of paper with suggested vaccinations on the front and slots for people to write about their health issues and any questions they had about their vaccinations before striking up a discussion.
Therefore, using a program like that to determine which vaccinations you require is a crucial first step. The study’s primary author, Dr. Laurie Archbald-Pannone, a geriatrician at UVA Health, added, “Once patients were informed, they were empowered to start that conversation and to ask their clinicians.”

According to 63% of survey participants, receiving a strong recommendation from their doctor would encourage them to be vaccinated.

“Like for pediatric patients, the vaccination schedule for older adults can be confusing – to know what is needed and when,” Dr. Archbald-Pannone stated.

According to Dr. Archbald-Pannone, it’s critical that clinicians are aware of the resources and options available for each patient before informing them of them.