Center for Accelerating Excellence in Translational Science (AXIS)

Charles R. Drew University Of Med & Sci, Los Angeles CA

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

ABSTRACT PROJECT SUMMARY / ABSTRACT – PROJECT 3 The expanded role of pharmacists in the pandemic was demonstrated as both frontline workers in testing and vaccination efforts and clinicians both on the frontline and in remote, telehealth capacities. The objective of this proposal is to assess the effectiveness of a pharmacist led telehealth intervention model, embedded in a general health and wellness model, including vaccine uptake, in high-risk communities. The central hypothesis is that, based upon our preliminary data from ongoing research, individuals in high-risk industries such as beauty, food, transportation, hospitality, nursing/medical aids and plant workers are more susceptible to respiratory infections and less likely to engage in preventative strategies for general health and wellness. An established pharmacist led telehealth model that delivers a health prevention and vaccine education in a larger health and wellness setting will increase vaccine uptake using a shared decision-making model. The central hypothesis will be tested by 1) assessing vaccine knowledge via an intake form among eligible participants, 2) implementing an individualized randomized group treatment trial approach where participants will be randomized to the control (telehealth wellness) vs the intervention (telehealth with wellness and preventative medicine, including vaccination education) over two years. The primary outcome will be COVID-19 vaccine uptake with a secondary outcome of influenza vaccines uptake and vaccine knowledge. The proposed research is significant because it will determine the effectiveness of pharmacists, who are considered among the most accessible healthcare professionals, and telehealth on increasing preventative health strategies, including vaccine knowledge. The expected outcomes are there will be a 15% increase in vaccine knowledge and uptake in the intervention group. The results will have a positive impact in communities that experience disparities and will serve to inform other healthcare professionals on how to incorporate preventative medicine, including vaccine education, using shared decision making and preventative healthcare strategies in current telehealth visits. This project will lay the groundwork for a tested vaccine education model to be incorporated in telehealth models that can be delivered to high-risk individuals with decreased access to care and increased risk. It will also impact the role of pharmacists as the intervention model will be offered through Xavier’s continuing education efforts to prepare pharmacists for their continuing expanding role as vaccine ambassadors.