Clinical Scorecard: Comparative Analysis of Two Vaccination Delivery Models for Influenza, COVID-19, and Pneumococcal Vaccines in Hospitalized Older Adults

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• Older adults are highly susceptible to severe outcomes from respiratory infections.
• Vaccination can significantly reduce mortality risk in older adults.
• Uptake of vaccines among older adults remains suboptimal.
• Opportunistic inpatient vaccination is acceptable and feasible.
• Two models of vaccination delivery were evaluated for effectiveness.
• Opportunistic vaccination in hospital settings can improve access for high-risk patients.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

Management

• Utilize both medical officer-led and dedicated vaccine prescriber models, ensuring clear roles and responsibilities.

Monitoring & Follow-up

Risks

Patient & Prescribing Data

Vaccines administered during admission include influenza and pneumococcal vaccines to avoid reliance on post-discharge follow-up.

Clinical Best Practices

• Implement academic detailing and regular reminders to enhance vaccination rates.
• Encourage verbal consent from patients or substitute decision-makers.
• Provide technical support and feedback opportunities to medical officers.
• Establish a follow-up process for patients post-discharge to ensure vaccination completion.

References

• Australian Immunisation Register
• National Immunisation Program