Background. The effect of a combined influenza and pneumococcal immunization reminder letter on the influenza and pneumococcal immunization rates, and the timeliness of receiving immunizations after receipt of a reminder letter, have not been studied. This study attempts to address these issues using a sample of new Medicare beneficiaries residing in Hawaii.
Objectives. This study assessed the effectiveness of a joint influenza and pneumococcal immunization reminder letter sent to new Medicare beneficiaries residing in Hawaii.
Methods. A cohort study was used with new Medicare beneficiaries randomly assigned to three intervention groups: group 1 received no letter; group 2 received a reminder letter for influenza immunization; and group 3 received a combination letter for both pneumococcal and influenza immunization.
Results. Receipt of a combined influenza and pneumococcal reminder moderately increased both influenza and pneumococcal immunization rates compared to receiving only an influenza reminder letter or no letter; and did not have a detrimental effect on influenza immunization rates.
Conclusions. Cost-effectiveness of this approach is potentially high as: (1) both influenza and pneumococcal immunizations may be given simultaneously reducing Medicare costs; and (2) the immunization reminder letter may be sent bulk mail using Medicare address lists. If this approach is used, health care providers should be alerted in order to prepare for an increase influx of patients which was pronounced within two weeks after the mail out.
Learning Objectives: Describe a cost effective way to assist in raising both the influenza and pneumococcal immunization rates in new Medicare beneficiaries
Keywords: Immunizations, Medicare
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.