Vaccinations Quality Improvement Activity (QIA)

The COVID-19 pandemic impacted Americans across the country and further threatened the health of patients living with chronic conditions. ESRD patients carry a greater risk of mortality and morbidity if contracted with COVID-19. Thankfully, three vaccine variations are readily available to the public to decrease the spread and severity of the virus. Vaccine hesitancy can be linked to lack of education and the spread of false information. To overcome this barrier, we must work diligently to encourage, educate, and inform our ESRD patients about the benefits of vaccination. In addition to COVID-19, patients remain at risk for contracting flu and pneumonia. The Network will provide continuous support to patients, providers, and facilities so that together, we can keep patients with complex, chronic conditions protected and informed.

For assistance with the implementation of strategies to improve vaccination, contact Kimberly Meinhold at KMeinhold@qualityinsights.org. 

2024-2025 Goals

  • Achieve a 25% increase in the rate of dialysis patients that are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, including boosters, as determined by the CDC and/or CMS, from the baseline period.
  • Achieve a 15% increase in the rate of dialysis facility staff that are fully vaccinated for COVID-19, including boosters, as determined by the CDC and/or CMS, from the baseline. 
  • Ensure that a minimum of 80% of dialysis patients receive an influenza vaccination.
  • Achieve a 15% increase in the rate of dialysis facility staff that receive an influenza vaccination, from the baseline.
  • Achieve a 10% increase in the rate of dialysis patients that are fully vaccinated for pneumococcal pneumonia, from the baseline.

*CDC guidance will be used to define “fully vaccinated.” There are multiple pathways to achieve “fully vaccinated” status for the pneumococcal vaccine. All pathways to “fully vaccinated” with count toward the measure goals.

 

Why Vaccines are Important

In the U.S., vaccines have greatly reduced or eliminated many infectious diseases that once routinely killed or harmed infants, children, and adults. However, the viruses and bacteria that cause these diseases still exist and you can still get these diseases if you aren’t vaccinated.

Source: CDC Reasons to Vaccinate

 

Healthier Together: One Shot at a Time!

Healthier Together One Shot at a Time! Graphic

Join us in our mission to build a healthier community, one shot at a time! Vaccination brings unity, resilience, and brighter days. Together, we protect ourselves, our loved ones, and our community from illness. Each shot creates a shield of immunity, demonstrating our commitment to health and vitality. Let's stand strong, arm in arm, and take the shot for a healthier tomorrow!

 

Key Messages to Share with Patients and Staff

Vaccines Are Very Safe

  • Vaccines are tested and monitored. Vaccines go through years of testing before the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) licenses them for use. Both the CDC and FDA continue to track the safety of all licensed vaccines.

  • Vaccine side effects are usually mild and go away in a few days. The most common side effects include soreness, redness, or swelling where the shot was given. Severe side effects are very rare.

  • Vaccines are one of the safest ways to protect your health. Talk with your doctor about the vaccines you should safely receive based on your health or other conditions.


General Vaccination Resources

COVID-19

INFLUENZA

PNEUMONIA 

DATA REPORTING

For assistance with the implementation of strategies to improve vaccination, contact Kimberly Meinhold at KMeinhold@qualityinsights.org