Doctors Asked To Encourage Adult Vaccinations
By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - If you have children, you know all too well the many trips needed to the doctor for vaccinations in those early years. In fact, you probably remember getting them yourself.
Well guess what? It might not be over!
Each year, thousands of deaths in adults occur due to conditions including the flu that could have potentially been prevented by one of the 11 recommended vaccines available to adults.
Despite CDC guidelines, vaccination numbers are falling short of national goals. Now, they are turning to doctors for help.
The vast majority of doctors checked their patients' vaccination status at least once a year, and these discussions did not always take place.
More conversation and better reimbursement for physicians could help.