Voluntary reporting of health care personnel seasonal influenza vaccination rates and the impact of universal policies in Illinois hospitals

Abstract

Objective: In 2009, voluntary public reporting of hospital health care personnel (HCP) vaccination rates began in Illinois. We describe our experience over 3 influenza seasons and examine the impact universal policies have had on performance.

Methods: A secure website was used to report monthly HCP vaccination rates by each participating hospital. Overall and individual hospital performance was publicly reported each month.

Results: In the first two seasons, there were 11 hospitals reporting with an average end of season rate of 76% (2009-2010) and 81% (2010-2011). In the 2011-2012 season, there were 22 hospitals reporting, 9 of which had a new universal policy for HCP influenza vaccination. The average 2011-2012 end of season rate was 72% for hospitals with a voluntary program and 95% for hospitals with a universal policy. HCP were also vaccinated earlier in the influenza season when a universal policy was in place, providing greater benefit over time.

Conclusion: Public reporting of HCP influenza vaccination rates may contribute to implementation of universal employee vaccination policies. Hospitals with universal policies have higher vaccination rates than those with voluntary vaccination programs.