Talk to the Veterans Crisis Line now
U.S. flag
An official website of the United States government

VA Health Systems Research

Go to the VA ORD website
Go to the QUERI website

HSR&D Citation Abstract

Search | Search by Center | Search by Source | Keywords in Title

Do Patient Intentions Predict Vaccination Behavior Over Time

LaVela SL, Legro MW, Weaver FM, Goldstein B, Smith B. Do Patient Intentions Predict Vaccination Behavior Over Time. Paper presented at: AcademyHealth Annual Research Meeting; 2004 Jun 1; San Diego, CA.




Abstract:

Objectives: · To determine if the proportion of veterans with spinal cord injuries and disorders (SCIandD) who received an influenza vaccine and/or a pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV) increased over time.· To examine whether intention to receive influenza vaccine was related to subsequent behavior. Methods: Questionnaires to assess self-reported rates of annual influenza vaccination and PPV (ever received), attitudes, intentions and behaviors were conducted following each of two vaccination seasons. Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics for a national cohort of veterans who completed questionnaires for both years (n = 1200). Results: Respondents' mean age was 58, 98% were male, 76% were white. Influenza vaccination rates increased significantly in the second year compared to the first year (68% vs. 65%; p < 0.0001). Rates for ever having received a PPV were 67% in year 1 and 75% in year 2; p < 0.0001. Of respondents who indicated in year 1 intention to get an influenza shot during the following season, 86% did. Of those planning not to receive an influenza vaccine, 84% did not. Of respondents who were unsure of their intentions, 40% received the influenza vaccine during the following year. Conclusions: Vaccination rates increased over time for influenza and PPV. Intention to receive influenza vaccine is related to actual behavior in veterans with SCIandD. Implications/potential impact for future research and veterans health:Respiratory complications, the leading cause of death in the SCIandD population, can be reduced using inexpensive vaccines. A focus on individuals who are unsure and those who have no intention of being vaccinated using methods aimed at altering intentions may be warranted.





Questions about the HSR website? Email the Web Team

Any health information on this website is strictly for informational purposes and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition.