Influenza Vaccinations Reduce Flu-related Hospitalizations and Death Rates

Date: 11/01/24

You have the best interest of your patients at heart, and you have their trust. YOUR recommendation is key to ensuring patients get vaccinated to help combat dwindling vaccination rates.

All flu vaccines in the United States will be "trivalent" vaccines, protecting against three separate influenza viruses.

Before talking with your patients

Create standing orders so that others can vaccinate patients
Standing orders can result in increased vaccine uptake
Add reminders and follow-ups in patients’ EMR or EHR

Talking with your patients

CDC research shows that patients are more likely to get a flu vaccine if their doctor recommends it.

A strong, declarative statement can reduce vaccine hesitancy
Give patients scheduling options. Ask if they want the vaccine before the doctor comes in, or after.
Say, “You’re due for your flu vaccine. Let’s do that today while you’re here.”
Avoid offering “next visit option”
“If not today, let’s schedule an appointment.” Offer an option for extenuating circumstances.
Have staff follow-up. If patients did not get vaccinated during an office visit, there’s a good chance they won’t get it

Discuss the reasons patients should get vaccinated

Phrase to use – “IF NOT FOR YOU – THEM!”
Reduced likelihood of hospitalization
Age, health status, risk factors, or comorbidities affect the risk of serious flu complications
Mention the vaccine’s efficacy, side effects, safety, and misconceptions
Influenza illness may be less severe in vaccinated individuals
Remind patients that a flu vaccine protects them and those around them

Influenza resources and references

2024-2025 Influenza Vaccines*

Vaccine	Age Ranges	Indication	Status	Billing
FluMist	Age 2-49 years	Active immunization for the prevention of influenza disease caused by influenza virus subtypes A and type B contained in the vaccine.	Preferred	Pharmacy or Medical Benefits
Fluarix	Age ≥ 6 months
FluLaval	Age ≥ 6 months
Flublok	Age ≥ 6 months
Fluzone	Age ≥ 6 months

FluzoneHigh Dose	Age ≥ 65 years old	Active immunization for the prevention of disease caused by influenza A subtype viruses and type B virus.	Preferred	Pharmacy or Medical Benefits
Afluria	Age ≥ 6 months
Fluad	Age ≥ 65 years old
Flucelvax	Age ≥ 6 months

*Reference: www.immunize.org

2024 Member Flu Vaccination Rewards

PLAN	ACTIVITY	REWARD VALUE	FREQUENCY	REWARD TYPE
Meridian	Flu vaccine (children under 2)	$25	Annual	Prepaid card
WellCare	Annual Flu vaccine	50 points	Annual	Points accumulate toward a monetary award