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Learning Objective:
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to identify components of an integrated program for hepatitis vaccinations.
By the end of the presentation participants will be able to state examples of what can be learned with an integrated hepatitis vaccine program.
Background:
The goal of the Vaccines for Adults at High Risk Program (VFARH) is to raise vaccination coverage of high-risk adults and reduce disease burden in underserved populations in Kansas. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment recognized the need to provide effective, cost efficient and barrier free immunization services to Kansas residents at increased risk for viral hepatitis. Epidemiology Services Section, Immunization Program, and STD/HIV Program worked together to integrate an adult hepatitis vaccine program into existing STD/HIV services at three local health departments (LHDs) in December 2002.
Setting:
STD/HIV clinics. Sixty percent of STD clients in Kansas attend one of the current clinic sites.
Population e.g. API Youth, MSM, IDU:
Anyone ≥19 years old and seeking services at these STD clinics.
Project Description:
VFAHR offers free hepatitis A and B vaccine to persons seeking STD/HIV services. All clients are offered hepatitis B vaccine and are screened for eligibility of hepatitis A vaccine. Clients declining vaccination are asked additional questions about refusal. Clients receive hepatitis educational materials before and/or during a visit. Education of the staff includes importance of VFAHR, hepatitis disease information, and rationale for integration of services.
Results/Lessons Learned:
Over 50% of 4000 clients have received a hepatitis A and/or B vaccine. The two primary reasons for refusal of hepatitis A and B vaccines are: “already vaccinated” and “not worried”. The first response indicates success of hepatitis vaccination programs, and the second highlights the need to increase perceived susceptibility.
Plans for the future of the program include expanding to at least two additional LHDs and to develop an evaluation to assess specific strategies and actions.
See more of Poster Session #1
See more of The 2005 National Viral Hepatitis Prevention Conference