[The evaluation of noncompliance in an anti-influenza vaccination program]

The article presents an evaluation of an anti-influenza vaccination programme in a population at risk, with a special study of the general characteristics of the group of non-complying patients, and the possible relation of these characteristics with their conduct. Moreover, a study was made of the possible motives for not complying with the vaccination programme by means of a survey carried out by post and telephone in a representative sample of 108 individuals. A 34.77% of the registered population did not receive the anti-influenza vaccine, corresponding largely with the youngest age group (15 to 44 years) and there were no significant differences determined by sex or risk factor or doctor. A positive response was received from 75% of those surveyed, and the basic conclusions drawn were a low proportion of information error attributable to the programme (2.94%), and patient refusal as the principal cause of non-compliance (54.41%), followed by "other reasons" (hospitalisation, absence from home, etc.) (32.35%). The strategies that may be followed in the face of this problem require definition of the group of non-compliers, further understanding of the motives for their conduct, and educational measures to change their attitude. 95.9%). Incidence of hypertension and hyperlipemia was 56.2% and 47.3%. Late vascular events varied between 2.6% (nephropathy) and 19.5% (retinopathy). A total of 101 patients (44.6%) were unaware of the existence of diabetic health education programmes. Moreover, 68 (30.3%) declared that they had never received any previous information about their diabetes. Practical skills were evaluated on an individual basis.