Although annual flu shots are recommended for persons with diabetes, substantial racial differences in flu vaccinations exist among persons with diabetes. This study assessed racial differences in flu shots and determined whether differences are attributable to patient vs. physician behavior. Data are from a 1% random sample of the National Diabetes Cohort, a cohort of all fee-for-service Medicare beneficiaries with diagnosed diabetes in 1994. Using 1994 Medicare claims submitted for these beneficiaries, we identified all persons (N=24,972) who visited a physician office for a medical procedure during weeks when flu shots were given (mid October to mid December). We then identified those that received a flu shot and whether the flu shot was patient-initiated. A flu shot was said to be patient-initiated if it was listed as the primary reason for the visit on the claim. Among persons visiting a physician during flu shot weeks, African American beneficiaries were much less likely than Whites to receive a flu shot (age, gender adjusted OR=0.45, p<0.001). Patient-initiated flu shots were more common among White than African Americans persons (white=44.5%; African American=30.0%). Among beneficiaries not initiating flu shot encounter but visiting a physician for some other reason, African American beneficiaries were again much less likely to receive a flu shot (adjusted OR=0.56, p<0.001). Both patient motivation as well as differential treatment by physicians play roles in the observed racial differences in flu vaccination among Medicare beneficiaries with diabetes.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, the participant will be able to: 1. Discuss why blacks have lower rates of flu shots
Keywords: Diabetes,
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.