Despite the significant benefits of herpes zoster vaccine (HZV), vaccination rates remain low. Electronic medical records (EMR) can serve as a practical strategy to better facilitate the application of preventative health care, such as increasing immunization rates. A new care model that can increase the herpes zoster vaccination rate, as well as other preventative health services, is warranted. The objective of this study is to investigate if the functions of an EMR, in combination with a pharmacist as part of the care team, can improve the herpes zoster vaccination rate.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
HEALTH_SERVICES_RESEARCH
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
2,589
The EMR generated a list of patients aged 60 or older without HZV documentation. Patients were categorized into two subgroups based on activated electronic patient portal (EPP) status. Randomized patients from each subgroup received an informational packet regarding shingles and the HZV by either the EMR or USPS mail, depending on EPP status. A pharmacist reviewed the medical chart of interested patients to assess if the HZV was clinically indicated; eligible patients were mailed a HZV prescription.
The Ohio State University Martha Morehouse General Internal Medicine Clinic
Columbus, Ohio, United States
Number of Participants Who Received the Herpes Zoster Vaccine
Six months after the intervention, a second EMR report was generated to determine the change in vaccination rate of both the intervention and control groups.
Time frame: 6 months
Difference in Vaccination Rates Between Patients Who Recieved a Mailed Letter Versus a Secure Email
Difference in vaccination rates between patients sent communications via US postal service (USPS) and those sent communications via electronic patient portal (EPP)
Time frame: 6 months
Amount of Time Required by a Clinical Pharmacist to Manage This Workflow
Time frame: 6 months
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.