Objectives
· Present evidence of disparities in vaccination rates among minority patients and the corresponding prevalence of comorbid conditions and inequities in health outcomes among minority patients
· Present evidence of influenza vaccinations ability to prevent influenza disease and related complications as a means address overall health disparities
· Present evidence showing disparities are driven by systemic bias, not just patient attitudes and beliefs.
· Share best demonstrated practices to support vaccine equity initiatives to ensure patients continued to get vaccinated throughout the flu season
Key Takeaways
· The disproportionate burden of chronic disease and influenza related illness on minorities is amplified due to lower vaccination rates and lesser access to vaccines proven to prevent more influenza than standard dose options.
· Ensuring minority communities are vaccinated throughout the season will help improve health outcomes.
· Increased awareness of this issue, ensuring vaccine availability and using inclusive approaches to vaccination campaign promotion may help increase vaccination rates.