Adult Immunization Collaborative Project

Background: In an effort to increase adult immunization rates in Pennsylvania (PA), the Division of Immunizations (DOI) has identified two partners, PA Pharmacists Association (PPA) and the PA Academy of Family Physicians (PAFP), to collaborate with on a plan to make vaccines available to meet the immunization needs of adults.  A referral program was created through the collaboration efforts of the groups.  Essentially, PPA identified and created a list of all pharmacists in PA licensed to immunize.  PAFP distributed this list to all their members advising them that pharmacists are available to immunize their patients 18 years of age and older with all vaccines recommended for adults by the ACIP.  The project requires all participating pharmacists to enroll in the PA Statewide Immunization Information System (SIIS) and individual providers are also encouraged to enroll in SIIS so that their patients’ records can be accessed easily.

Setting: Various pharmacies, physician offices, and clinics.

Population: Individuals 18 years of age and older.

Project Description: The DOI encourages new collaboration between multiple entities and this program strengthens local relationships between providers and pharmacists.  Due to this new referral program, alternative vaccinators are being utilized and skills are being maintained appropriately while still supporting the “medical home” concept.

Results/Lessons Learned: The program started out as an idea for a pilot program in one area of the state but very quickly developed in a statewide effort.  The major obstacle to overcome continues to be inadequate third party reimbursement for vaccines and the administration fees.  The collaborators met with the Insurance Department and the Department of Public Welfare to try to resolve this issue. At this time, PA insurance companies are contacting and reimbursing pharmacists that are enrolled in the PA SIIS.  The program is evaluated by the results of the satisfaction survey that is given to all participating providers.