Pediatric Influenza Vaccination by Office-Based Pediatricians and Family Physicians During the 2010–2011 Influenza Season

Background: Pediatricians (PDs) and family physicians (FPs) are the principal physician specialties that provide influenza vaccine for children in the United States (US).

Objectives: To compare pediatric influenza vaccination practices of US PDs and FPs

Methods: A prospective, observational study was conducted during the 2010–2011 influenza season among 105 PD and 13 FP offices that vaccinate children against influenza. Surveys at study start and completion captured office patient populations by age group and office demographics and characteristics. Vaccination-related activities and doses administered were collected biweekly during the influenza season. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics.

Results: PD offices began vaccination earlier and ended later in the season than FP offices, increasing availability (239 vs 212 days; P=0.003). Both specialties gave most influenza vaccines during well visits (PDs, 40%; FPs, 55%) and in clinics during routine office hours (PDs, 20%; FPs, 20%); PDs administered a higher percentage of vaccinations during sick visits (15% vs 10%; P<0.05). PD offices more commonly employed standing orders and second dose reminder systems (63% for both for PDs versus 46% and 39%, respectively, for FPs). PDs had a higher vaccination coverage rate for all children (24% vs 14% for receipt of ≥1 dose); both specialties had similar compliance with the recommended 2-dose regimen for previously unvaccinated children aged 6 months to 8 years (56% vs 57%). PDs used more preservative-free vaccine than FPs for children aged <2 years (80% vs 45%). Among children aged 2–18 years, PDs most commonly used the intranasal vaccine (46%) while FPs most commonly used the multidose vial (65%).

Conclusions: Significant differences exist in influenza vaccination-related behaviors employed by US PDs and FPs. A greater understanding of these differences may allow for the creation of more effective strategies to improve influenza vaccination rates within each speciality. Sponsored by MedImmune, LLC.