Enhancing Vaccine Uptake in Hospitalized Patients: The Critical Role of Pharmacists in Promoting Influenza and Pneumococcal Immunization

This study evaluates the role of pharmacists in promoting immunization efforts within a large tertiary hospital, focusing on influenza and pneumococcal vaccines. A prospective cohort study involving 1,000 hospitalized patients found that pharmacist-led interventions significantly increased vaccination rates for influenza (from 45% to 75%) and pneumococcal vaccines (from 35% to 65%). Patient acceptance improved, with vaccine refusal rates decreasing from 20% to 10%. Additionally, these interventions led to a reduction in vaccine-preventable infections, shorter hospital stays, and lower 30-day readmission rates. The findings underscore the critical role of pharmacists in enhancing immunization coverage and improving patient outcomes in hospital settings.