Every year, physicians care for the millions of people in the United States who contract influenza, including the more than 200,000 people it sends to the hospital.
A new online immunization toolkit, developed by the W. Montauge Cobb National Health Institute, National Medical Association (NMA), and National Hispanic Medical Association, can help physicians apply evidence-based strategies in their practices to increase flu vaccination rates, especially among diverse populations.
The toolkit provides tips and resources for launching a successful flu vaccination campaign. It also contains fact sheets for patients on the difference between the flu and a cold, who is at increased risk, and myths about the flu.
“African Americans experience more long-term health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease, than other groups,” said Rhonda Johnson, MD, medical director of health equity and quality services at Highmark. Dr. Johnson is also president of the Gateway Medical Society, a component of the NMA.
“Having any one of these conditions can increase the risk of getting life-threatening complications from the flu. There is fair evidence supporting the use of education aimed at providers of racial and ethnic minority patients.”