By Atlantic Health Partners

Flu activity was unusually low throughout the 2020-2021 flu season in the United States, based on the annual Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) influenza report. Much of that decline can be attributed to COVID-19 precautions, but, with COVID-19 restrictions beginning to lift or relax across the country, it is difficult to predict the full impact on the upcoming flu season. While flu season typically begins in October, it is never too early for physician practices and clinics to begin preparing; keep reading for five significant benefits of reserving your 2022-2023 influenza vaccine supply.

Reliable inventory  
Vaccines are produced by private manufacturers who are taking measures such as extending manufacturing timelines to ensure they can meet the robust demand for vaccines and supplies. Though influenza manufacturers are not currently anticipating supply shortages, prebooking provides a safeguard against any potential supply chain delays and helps maintain continuous inventory between shipments. The CDC recommends health care facilities prebook their influenza vaccines between January and March.

Caregiver well-being 
In order to effectively care for others, caregivers must remain physically and mentally healthy. Health care organizations can promote a healthy workplace and support their employees by making vaccinations to preventable diseases readily available at no cost. Prebooking allows providers to take proactive measures to ensure there is vaccine inventory for their staff, allowing for prescheduled vaccinations, reduced sick days and consistent operational efficiency. 

Provider competition 
To remain competitive in an increasingly consumer-driven landscape, provider practices and clinics must be able to deliver exceptional and convenient care experiences. Preordering not only allows practices and clinics to receive their vaccine at a favorable, competitive time, it also gives clinicians the opportunity proactively notify their patients that they will be administering flu shots in the fall so that patients can book appointments at a time that is convenient for their schedule.

Opportunity for co-administration
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, health experts have reported that routine vaccination rates decreased by 32% for adults and 36% for adolescents in 2020-2021. This decline has negative implications for public health in the United States and puts the opportunity for herd immunity against flu strains from previous seasons at risk. By offering co-administered influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations and booster shots, patients can conveniently schedule appointments to receive multiple vaccines in one visit. CDC guidance has offered this solution as a safe and effective method for increasing routine vaccinations in patient populations and reducing overall burden on the health care industry.  

Favorable pricing
Though prebooking your vaccine supply requires an early commitment, partnering with a vaccine buying group that works directly with manufacturers and leading distributors can help ensure more favorable pricing, flexible payment options, and purchasing terms for your reservation.  

Influenza vaccine distribution generally begins in August and continues through the fall until all vaccines have been distributed. Providers are encouraged to stay ahead of the market by taking a proactive approach to protecting their caregivers and communities against the flu. 

Atlantic Health Partners, the nation’s leading vaccine buying group, has helped many ISMA members strengthen their immunization performance by providing reimbursement guidance, advocacy and timely updates. To learn more, contact Jeff now at 800-741-2044 or Cindy at 800-741-2044.