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  • Title: A Map of Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Influenza Vaccine Uptake in the Medicare Fee-for-Service Program.
    Author: Hall LL, Xu L, Mahmud SM, Puckrein GA, Thommes EW, Chit A.
    Journal: Adv Ther; 2020 May; 37(5):2224-2235. PubMed ID: 32274750.
    Abstract:
    INTRODUCTION: Despite improved understanding of the risks of influenza and better vaccines for older patients, influenza vaccination rates remain subpar, including in high-risk groups such as older adults, and demonstrate significant racial and ethnic disparities. METHODS: This study considers demographic, clinical, and geographic correlates of influenza vaccination among Medicare Fee-for-Service (FFS) beneficiaries in 2015-2016 and maps the data on a geographic information system (GIS) at the zip code level. RESULTS: Analyses confirm that only half of the senior beneficiaries evidenced a claim for receiving an inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV), with significant disparities observed among black, Hispanic, rural, and poorer beneficiaries. More extensive disparities were observed for the high-dose (HD) vaccine, with its added protection for older populations and confirmed economic benefit. Most white beneficiaries received HD; no non-white subgroup did so. Mapping of the data confirmed subpar vaccination in vulnerable populations with wide variations at the zip code level. CONCLUSION: Urgent and targeted efforts are needed to equitably increase IIV rates, thus protecting the most vulnerable populations from the negative health impact of influenza as well as the tax-paying public from the Medicare costs from failing to do so.
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