Preamble Pharmacists have an opportunity to protect the health of long-term care residents through participation in immunization programs. The consultant pharmacist has access to patients and their medical records, clinical knowledge, the appropriate data systems, and has a relationship with the long-term care facility.
Pharmacists are also a highly trusted source of health information.
All of these factors contribute to a successful immunization program. The purpose of this statement is to encourage consultant pharmacists to actively participate in immunization programs in long-term care environments. Position ASCP supports the active participation of consultant pharmacists in comprehensive immunization programs including advocacy, education, facilitation, and the administration of vaccines. Background Infectious diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality among residents of long-term care facilities. The occurrence of influenza and pneumococcal infections in the elderly nursing home population exceeds that of all other vaccine-preventable diseases.