2007-2008 Immunization Toolkit

Pneumonia and influenza are the fifth leading causes of death in the United States for patients age 65 and older. Influenza and pneumococcal immunizations have been shown to reduce deaths. Since not all patients seek routine medical care it is imperative that the opportunity for assessment, education, and immunization is not missed when care is provided in the home health setting. Efforts to increase immunization rates in the home health setting include incorporating influenza and pneumococcal immunizations into an agencies comprehensive patient assessment including offering these vaccinations (or aligning themselves to a vaccination source like physician practice sites, departments of health) as well as providing follow-up activities which include making certain the patient has received a immunization vaccination.