Pharmacist Consults Helped Close Patient Vaccine Gaps
Hospitalized patients frequently accepted recommended vaccines when pharmacists provided bedside screening and counseling.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in COVID-19
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A study evaluated a pharmacist-led transitions-of-care program that identified and addressed vaccination gaps among patients at safety-net hospitals. Over half of patients who accepted a vaccine received their dose before leaving the hospital.
Why it matters
Identifying vaccination needs during hospital stays provides a critical window for improving immunization rates among patients who may lack consistent outpatient access. This approach helps ensure that underlying health conditions and age-based risks are addressed before discharge.
In an analysis of 147 patients at safety-net hospitals, researchers found that 66.9% accepted at least one recommended vaccine when offered by a pharmacist, compared to only 17.0% who were up to date upon admission.
The players
Temple University Hospital
A Philadelphia-based academic medical center that served as a participating site in the study.
Saint Peter's University Hospital
A research site involved in the pharmacist-directed vaccination gap analysis.
Beth Israel Lahey Health
A healthcare system that contributed to the multi-site research on transitions-of-care vaccination services.
The details
Pharmacists systematically screened patient records by cross-referencing electronic health records with state immunization registries and patient histories. Using CDC vaccination schedules as a guide, they offered bedside counseling and doses to fill eligibility gaps caused by age or underlying conditions. This process streamlined complex decision-making, as vaccination requirements for conditions like pneumococcal disease shifted during the study period.
Timeline
During the study period, pharmacists conducted screenings and vaccination guidelines underwent changes.
Health Landscape
This research reflects a growing effort to integrate preventive care into acute hospital workflows to address systemic immunization gaps. The study operationalizes complex, evolving guidance from the CDC's recommended adult immunization schedule within the inpatient setting.
If you are hospitalized, it is worth asking your care team if a pharmacist can review your vaccination history to identify any gaps. You should discuss your specific risk factors, such as age or underlying health conditions, with your doctor to understand which vaccines are appropriate for you.
The takeaway
Pharmacist-led screening can significantly improve vaccination uptake by addressing hesitation and eligibility barriers at the bedside. If you feel hesitant about a vaccine, discussing your specific concerns about safety or effectiveness with a clinician is the best way to get evidence-based answers.
Further reading
For more information on staying current with shots, explore our COVID-19 section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Pharmacytimes.
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