The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there have been at least 19 million flu-related illnesses so far this flu season. Unlike past years where the influenza A virus has dominated the first half of flu season, this year the influenza B virus, or Victoria virus, has been predominant. The unpredictability of this flu season is a reminder for practices that it’s never too early to begin preparation for the next flu season.
As a part of this preparation, practices, workplace clinics, and other provider facilities must continuously reevaluate their influenza vaccine supply and plan in advance to ensure they are properly stocked. Pre-booking vaccines is the best way practices can proactively prepare for the upcoming flu season. Below, we explore how organizations—and their patients—can benefit from pre-booking flu vaccines.
Tailored Recommendations
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) suggests that flu vaccine pre-booking occur from January to March. Before pre-booking vaccines, providers should review their patient populations and consider their patients’ unique needs. For the 2019-2020 season, the CDC recommends a number of influenza vaccines from GlaxoSmithKline, Sanofi Pasteur, and Seqirus. The CDC outlines key considerations for clinicians to evaluate their practice needs, including the number of children, seniors, people with egg allergies, and patient population growth. Providers should also consider the needs of their staff, as studies show they are more likely to be vaccinated against the flu if their employer provides access to on-site, or free, flu vaccinations.
Primary care providers often serve as the quarterback of care, working with other providers on behalf of their patients. Having deep knowledge of their patients’ care journeys, primary care clinicians can help patients determine which flu vaccine is the best option and should coordinate with other clinicians to ensure the patient is receiving the flu protection they need.
Improved Supply
Because a new flu vaccine is developed each year, manufacturers produce vaccines in limited amounts. Pre-booking their flu vaccine supply helps practices avoid vaccine supply limitations that may occur from time to time. Additionally, the CDC recommends that practices offer the flu vaccine by the end of October to ensure that patients can develop immunity, which takes about two weeks, before the flu season picks up.
When providers are confident that they can supply the appropriate flu vaccine option for every patient, they can confidently recommend the vaccine, and at a time that’s convenient for the patient, such as during a well-visit. A strong provider recommendation remains one of the most impactful actions clinicians can take to improve adult vaccination uptake.
Financial Flexibility
While pre-booking requires early commitment, many buying groups in conjunction with manufacturers and distributors, offer flexible options, including the opportunity to adjust orders after the booking deadlines to accommodate changes in needs and patient populations. Given the limited lifespan of a flu vaccine, many manufacturers offer end-of-season returns, meaning that practices can receive credit or reimbursement for any unused flu vaccines.
With all of these variables, pre-booking the flu vaccine can be a win-win for practices. Taking a proactive approach to influenza vaccine ordering can provide patients with the protection they need against the flu.