(HealthNewsDigest.com) – With data showing that less than half of adults over age 18 received an influenza vaccine last year, the AMA today adopted policy encouraging efforts to increase immunization rates in the U.S.
The new AMA policy recognizes the current role of pharmacists in vaccinating target populations that lack access to a medical home or that are otherwise unlikely to receive immunizations through physician practices. The policy affirms that health professionals who administer vaccines have shared responsibilities to ensure that vaccination administration is documented in the patient medical record and calls on physicians and pharmacists, as a part of the healthcare delivery team, to work together in the community to encourage patients to follow-up with a primary care physician to ensure continuity of care.
“It is important that we ensure patients have access to the care they need when they need it, especially access to preventive care like immunizations,” said AMA Board Member William E. Kobler, M.D. “By complementing the efforts of physicians with the work of health professionals in other health settings to deliver vaccines, we have the ability to increase immunization rates, address vaccine-preventable illnesses and improve health outcomes.”
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About the AMA
The American Medical Association is the premier national organization dedicated to empowering the nation’s physicians to continually provide safer, higher quality, and more efficient care to patients and communities. For more than 165 years the AMA has been unwavering in its commitment to using its unique position and knowledge to shape a healthier future for America. For more information, visitama-assn.org.
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