Influenza vaccination among children with asthma in medicaid managed care

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Public Health
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Influenza vaccination is crucial for children with asthma to prevent severe respiratory illness.
• Managed Medicaid populations often have lower vaccination rates, necessitating targeted research.
• Asthma management quality includes adherence to recommended preventive care, such as influenza vaccination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine influenza vaccination rates among children with asthma enrolled in managed Medicaid.
• To identify demographic and clinical risk factors associated with missed influenza vaccinations in this population.

Main Methods:

• A longitudinal study surveyed parents of 1058 children (aged 2-16 years) with asthma in managed Medicaid plans.
• Telephone surveys were conducted at baseline and 1-year follow-up to assess vaccination status.
• Logistic regression analysis identified factors associated with influenza vaccination non-receipt.

Main Results:

• The overall influenza vaccination rate was 16% (21% for persistent asthma).
• Risk factors for missing vaccination included older age (>9 years) and lower parental education.
• Children with persistent asthma and those hospitalized were less likely to miss vaccination, but older children and those with less educated parents were more likely to miss it.

Conclusions:

• Significant gaps exist in influenza vaccination coverage for children with asthma in managed Medicaid.
• Interventions should focus on older children and families with lower educational attainment to improve vaccination rates.
• Improving influenza vaccination is essential for enhancing asthma care quality in this vulnerable group.