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J Public Health (Oxf). 2017 Jul 5:1-7. doi: 10.1093/pubmed/fdx078. [Epub ahead of print]
Effectiveness of community pharmacies in improving seasonal influenza uptake-an evaluation using the Donabedian framework.
Rai GK1, Wood A2.
Author information
Abstract
Background:
Community pharmacies are now commissioned nationally in England to provide a seasonal influenza vaccination service. However, there is little evidence about the effectiveness of a pharmacy-based immunization service in improving uptake.
Methods:
The Donabedian framework was used to evaluate a community pharmacy service in the West Midlands from a commissioning perspective. A mixed methods approach was adopted, including provider and patient surveys, data from the national influenza vaccination returns and an electronic pharmacy data recording system.
Results:
Patient satisfaction with the service was high. There was no increase in uptake rates. Impact on reaching new patients was limited. The service had an appropriate information system to record activity. Promotion and signposting for the service was weak. Poor engagement with stakeholders led to dissatisfaction and General Practitioner complaints. Commissioners responded to emerging issues to ensure the pharmacies' set up was compliant with the Service Level Agreement.
Conclusions:
Improvements in convenience and choice for patients did not result in an increase in uptake rates. With a national pharmacy influenza programme, local arrangements to optimize the service may be limited. Clear arrangements for activity transfer and recording, partnership working and a good communications strategy are crucial in achieving a positive outcome.
KEYWORDS:
immunization; population-based and preventative services; public health
PMID: 29106582 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdx078
Effectiveness of community pharmacies in improving seasonal influenza uptake-an evaluation using the Donabedian framework.
Rai GK1, Wood A2.
Author information
Abstract
Background:
Community pharmacies are now commissioned nationally in England to provide a seasonal influenza vaccination service. However, there is little evidence about the effectiveness of a pharmacy-based immunization service in improving uptake.
Methods:
The Donabedian framework was used to evaluate a community pharmacy service in the West Midlands from a commissioning perspective. A mixed methods approach was adopted, including provider and patient surveys, data from the national influenza vaccination returns and an electronic pharmacy data recording system.
Results:
Patient satisfaction with the service was high. There was no increase in uptake rates. Impact on reaching new patients was limited. The service had an appropriate information system to record activity. Promotion and signposting for the service was weak. Poor engagement with stakeholders led to dissatisfaction and General Practitioner complaints. Commissioners responded to emerging issues to ensure the pharmacies' set up was compliant with the Service Level Agreement.
Conclusions:
Improvements in convenience and choice for patients did not result in an increase in uptake rates. With a national pharmacy influenza programme, local arrangements to optimize the service may be limited. Clear arrangements for activity transfer and recording, partnership working and a good communications strategy are crucial in achieving a positive outcome.
KEYWORDS:
immunization; population-based and preventative services; public health
PMID: 29106582 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdx078