Outcomes of a college-led community-based influenza vaccine program for underserved New York City communities

Vaccine-preventable diseases are a major public health issue. Underserved communities are at heightened risk in New York City, where influenza morbidity and mortality remain elevated. Pharmacists and student pharmacists can play important roles in these communities through vaccine-based initiatives.

Enhance student experiences in encounters with underserved individuals; determine patient satisfaction with pharmacist-administered vaccines; assess for gaps in immunization care among the underserved.

St. John's University, College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (CPHS) prioritizes public health outreach to underserved neighborhoods through various initiatives organized by its Urban Institute. The CPHS's annual Pam Shea-Byrnes community outreach immunization initiative was developed to increase access to influenza vaccinations for the indigent population through the establishment of new community partnerships.

The partnership between CPHS and community-based organizations resulted in influenza vaccines administered at no cost to beneficiaries, while offering students experiences in immunization initiatives and care for the underserved.

Participating students completed a pre- and postexperience survey. After vaccine administration, patients completed an immunization history survey from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in addition to a satisfaction survey.

A total of 105 patients received the influenza vaccine. Of these, 53 (50.5%) patients completed both the CDC assessment and satisfaction surveys. Of the survey respondents, 81% agreed that the pharmacists and student pharmacists were friendly and professional. Most of the patients (92.5%) were satisfied with the service. Fourteen student pharmacists participated in the initiative and completed both pre-and postsurveys. Student pharmacists indicated in postsurveys a stronger personal responsibility for caring for those in need. They also agreed that there is a clear responsibility for pharmacists to personally care for those in need.

Student experiences during interactions with the underserved were enriched, and patients were satisfied with the pharmacist-run initiative. Further expansion of the initiative will be considered.