The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #66464

Vasu Singh, MD, MPH and Bonnie Coyle, MD, MS. Community Health, St. Luke's Hospital, 801 Ostrum Street, Bethlehem, PA 18015, 6109542100, vasusingh@aol.com

With funding from the Pennsylvania department of health, we developed a collaborative project to provide free influenza and pneumonia vaccines to minority population (ethnic/ non- ethnic, uninsured and underinsured population) residing in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Healthy people 2010 objectives have addressed the need for influenza and pneumococcal vaccines to reduce illness and deaths, especially among minority groups. Our objectives were to: 1. Increase awareness among minorities, about the current recommendation for flu and pneumonia vaccines by using appropriate information dissemination sources. 2. Identify the current immunization rates, attitudes, beliefs, resources and barriers for minority population to obtain flu and pneumonia vaccines by using culturally sensitive survey.

The foundation of our program was a culturally appropriate partnership with local agencies and integration of outreach services in order to provide services to minorities. Local agencies included religious organizations, city health bureau and local school district. The program was well advertised. Sites for the shots were selected carefully, keeping in mind that most minorities decline services due to the lack of transportation. It was an excellent learning experience for students from the local schools, who were involved in outreach work. Trained workers administered a brief survey to find out people's attitudes and beliefs about influenza/pneumonia vaccines. There was 184% increase in total number of flu shots given and 246% increase in number surveys done in 2002 as compared to 2001. Whereas number of pneumonia shots given in 2002 was 17% lower than 2001. Lessons learned from the program will be discussed during the presentation.

Learning Objectives:

• By the end of presentation participants will be able to identify the role of partnership/collaboration with local agencies to increase minority group's participation.
• By the end of presentation participants will be able to identify the role of outreach activities in conjunction with other strategies, to help educate and inform minority population about the need and current recommendations for flu/pneumonia shots.
• By the end of presentation participants will be able to identify, the need for careful data analysis that could prevent inaccurate results.

Keywords: Immunizations, Community Health Programs

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.