AMA Primer Aims to Help Physicians Improve Immunization Rates

CHICAGO ­ The American Medical Association (AMA) today released a new primer to help physicians improve immunization rates, particularly in minority populations.  The primer, Roadmaps for Clinical Practice, Improving Immunization: Addressing Racial and Ethnic Populations, provides tools to help physicians ensure that patients are up-to-date with their vaccinations.  The primer also contains important information for patients and their families, including immunization schedules for both children and adults.

Vaccines protect patients from at least 14 diseases once common in the United States, says AMA president John C. Nelson, MD, MPH. Unfortunately, there are still too many individuals, especially in minority communities, who do not benefit from the protection of immunization.  This primer encourages physicians to take a leadership role in promoting vaccination for all patients.