A Computerized Reminder System to Increase the Use of Preventive Care for Hospitalized Patients

Although they are cost effective, preventive care measures are underutilized. Pneumococcal vaccination is associated with decreased rates of hospitalization, decreased rates of bacteremia, and cost savings among patients who are at least 65 years old, 1 – 3 yet the vaccine is administered to only 45 percent of such patients. 4 Similarly, only 66 percent of patients in this age group are vaccinated against influenza, 4 despite reports that vaccination leads to decreased mortality, hospitalization rates, and medical costs. 5 – 7 Daily aspirin use reduces the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, and death in persons who are at high risk for occlusive vascular disease, 8 yet . . .