Well Child Wednesdays: An interprofessional pilot-program to increase pediatric immunizations Post-COVID

DOI

10.1016/j.xjep.2023.100606

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

6-1-2023

Publication Title

Journal of Interprofessional Education and Practice

Volume

31

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic halted routine medical care, including well-child visits (WCVs) and immunizations. Purpose: Describe the development and impact of a multidisciplinary initiative on the number of WCVs and immunizations delivered in aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic over a four week period between April 14, 2021 and May 5, 2021. Methods: Student pharmacists (SP), family medicine residents (FMRs), and nurses within a family medicine practice in a medically underserved community, developed a program to increase the number of pediatric patients up-to-date on WCVs and immunizations. “Well-child Wednesdays” used adjusted staffing to conduct visits with patients behind on vaccines. The 4-week pilot program utilized SPs to identify immunization gaps in patients less than 12 years old following chart review and to coordinate scheduling. During the visit, FMRs completed the components of the well-child visit; immunization gaps were communicated to the nurse who, after review, administered needed immunizations. Discussion: Of 193 patient charts reviewed for immunization needs, 68 were not up-to-date on routine vaccines and 29 patients (mean age 5 years old, 58.6% male) were able to be reached and agreed to schedule a visit. Of these, 20 kept their appointment and a total of 69 vaccines were administered, with DTaP as the most common with 13 doses administered followed by Hepatitis A with 10 doses given. Conclusions: An interprofessional immunization program was an effective strategy to address the decline in immunizations and WCVs as a result of COVID-19.

Open Access

Green Final

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS